United Kingdom Exports of Books, Newspapers, Pictures & Related

Exports of Books, Newspapers, Pictures & Related in the United Kingdom decreased to 222.03 GBP Million in January from 245.02 GBP Million in December of 2016. Exports of Books, Newspapers, Pictures & Related in the United Kingdom averaged 210.42 GBP Million from 2000 until 2017, reaching an all time high of 324.30 GBP Million in December of 2008 and a record low of 147.16 GBP Million in April of 2000.

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United Kingdom Exports of Books, Newspapers, Pictures & Related

This page includes a chart with historical data for the United Kingdom Exports of Books, Newspapers, Pictures & Related. United Kingdom Exports of Books, Newspapers, Pictures & Related - actual data, historical chart and calendar of releases - was last updated on December of 2018.

The unemployment rate in the UK stood at 4.1 percent in the three months to October 2018, remaining close to its lowest level since the 1970s and matching market expectations. The number of unemployed rose by 20,000 from the May to July period while employment increased by 79,000 and the number of job vacancies were near an all-time high. Average weekly earnings including bonuses rose 3.3 percent on the year, their biggest rise since the three months to July 2008; excluding bonuses, wages also grew 3.3 percent, the most since the end of 2008.

Annual inflation rate in the United Kingdom was flat at 2.4 percent in October of 2018, the same as in September but below market expectations of 2.5 percent. Prices slowed for transport and food but rose faster for housing and utilities and recreation and culture.

The unemployment rate in the UK came in at 4.1 percent in the third quarter of 2018, slightly higher than market expectations of 4 percent. The number of unemployed rose by 21,000 from the April to June period while employment rose by 23,000 and the number of job vacancies hit a fresh record high. Average weekly earnings including bonuses rose 3 percent in the third quarter, the most since Q3 2015; excluding bonuses, wages grew 3.2 percent, the most since Q4 2008.

The gross domestic product in the United Kingdom expanded 1.5 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, up from 1.2 percent in the previous period and matching market expectations. It was the strongest pace of expansion since the third quarter of 2017 mainly driven by household consumption and exports while business investment dropped the most since the first quarter of 2016.

The UK trade deficit decreased by GBP 2.07 billion to GBP 0.03 billion in September 2018 from an upwardly revised GBP 2.10 billion in the prior month. It was the smallest trade gap since February when a GBP 0.21 billion surplus was recorded.

The British economy grew by 0.6 percent on quarter in the three months to September 2018, following a 0.4 percent expansion in the previous period and matching market expectations, a preliminary estimate showed. It was the strongest growth rate since the last quarter of 2016 as household spending and exports rose firmly while business investment contracted at the fastest pace since early 2016 in part due to Brexit-related economic and political uncertainty.

The Bank of England voted unanimously to leave the Bank Rate steady at 0.75 percent on November 1st 2018, in line with market expectations. Policymakers said that if the economy continues to develop in line with forecasts, further tightening will be appropriate. The stock of UK government bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, was maintained at £435 billion.

Annual inflation rate in the United Kingdom eased to 2.4 percent in September of 2018 from 2.7 percent in August, below market expectations of 2.6 percent. It is the lowest reading in three months, mainly due to a slowdown in cost of food, transport and recreation and culture and a fall in clothing prices. Still, it remains above the BoE's target of 2 percent.

The unemployment rate in the UK was unchanged at 4 percent in the three months to August 2018, the lowest since 1975 and matching market expectations. The number of unemployed dropped by 47,000 from the March to May period while employment unexpectedly declined by 5,000, the first fall in near a year.

The UK trade deficit widened by GBP 0.7 billion to GBP 1.27 billion in August 2018 from an upwardly revised GBP 0.57 billion in the previous month and compared to market expectations of GBP 1.15 billion gap. It was the largest trade gap since May, as imports rose further than exports.

The gross domestic product in the United Kingdom expanded 1.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2018, revised from a preliminary estimate of 1.3 percent and little-changed from a near six-year low of 1.1 percent in the previous period.

The British economy grew by 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to June 2018, unrevised from the first estimate and above the previous period's figure of 0.1 percent. Household consumption rose faster than initially thought while business investment unexpectedly contracted amid uncertainty around Brexit.

Consumer price inflation in the UK rose to an annual rate of 2.7 percent in August 2018 from 2.5 percent in the previous month and comfortably above market expectations of 2.4 percent. It was the highest inflation rate since February mainly boosted by rising prices of transport, recreation & culture, and food & non-alcoholic beverages.

The Bank of England voted unanimously to leave the Bank Rate unchanged at 0.75 percent on September 13th 2018, following a 25bps hike in the previous meeting. The decision came in line with market expectations. The Committee voted unanimously to maintain the stock of sterling non-financial investment-grade corporate bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, at £10 billion and the stock of UK government bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, at £435 billion.

The unemployment rate in the UK held steady at 4 percent in the three months to July 2018, its joint-lowest since 1975 and in line with market consensus. The number of unemployed declined by 55,000 from the February to April period while employment rose by 3,000 and the number of job vacancies hit a fresh record high. Meanwhile, annual wage growth picked up from a nine-month low as businesses found it harder to recruit staff.

The UK trade deficit narrowed by GBP 0.83 billion to GBP 0.11 billion in July 2018 from a downwardly revised GBP 0.94 billion in the previous month, and below market expectations of a GBP 2.1 billion gap. It was the smallest trade deficit since a surplus was recorded in February, as both exports and imports hit all-time highs.

Consumer price inflation in the UK rose to an annual rate of 2.5 percent in July 2018 from a year low of 2.4 percent in the previous month and in line with market expectations. Inflation picked up for the first time since last November.

The unemployment rate in the UK fell to 4 percent in the three months to June 2018, the lowest level since the December 1974-February 1975 period and below market consensus of 4.2 percent. The number of unemployed declined by 65,000 from the January to March period while employment rose by 42,000. Still, annual wage growth eased to a nine-month low.

The gross domestic product in the United Kingdom expanded 1.3 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2018, little-changed from a near six-year low of 1.2 percent in the previous period and matching market expectations. Household consumption rose the least since the first quarter of 2012.

The British economy grew by 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to June 2018, following a 0.2 percent expansion in the previous period and matching market expectations, a preliminary estimate showed. Household consumption rose further and fixed investment rebounded firmly, while net trade subtracted from growth.

The Bank of England voted unanimously to raise the Bank Rate by 25bps at 0.75 percent on August 2nd, saying recent data appeared to confirm that the dip in output in the first quarter was temporary and that the labour market has continued to tighten and wage growth has firmed.

Consumer price inflation in the UK stood at an annual rate of 2.4 percent in June 2018, unchanged from the previous month and below market expectations of 2.6 percent. June's rate remained at the lowest level since March 2017.

The jobless rate in the UK stood at 4.2 percent in the three months to May, its joint-lowest since 1975. The number of unemployed declined by 12,000 from the December to February period while 137,000 jobs were created, bringing the employment rate to a record high of 75.7 percent. Still, wage growth eased to a six-month low.

The gross domestic product in the United Kingdom expanded 1.2 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2018, unrevised from the second estimate and following a downwardly revised 1.3 percent growth in the previous period. It was the weakest pace of expansion since the second quarter of 2012, due to a slowdown in both household consumption and fixed investment.

The Bank of England left its key Bank Rate on hold at 0.5 percent on June 21st 2018, in line with market expectations. However, 3 out of 9 policymakers, including BoE Chief Economist, voted for a rate hike compared with only 2 votes in the previous meeting.

Consumer price inflation in the UK stood at an annual rate of 2.4 percent in May 2018, unchanged from the previous month's one-year low and slightly below market expectations of 2.5 percent. Also, core inflation was flat at 2.1 percent.

The unemployment rate in the UK stood 4.2 percent in the three months to April of 2018, the same as in the previous two periods and the the joint lowest since 1975. Figures came in line with market expectations. The number of people in work rose by 146,000, way above forecasts of a 110,000 increase.

The UK's trade deficit widened by GBP 2.1 billion to GBP 5.28 billion in April 2018 from an upwardly revised GBP 3.22 billion in the previous month and above market expectations of a GBP 2.5 billion gap. It was the largest trade deficit since September 2016.

The British economy advanced 1.2 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2018, slowing from a 1.4 percent rise in the previous quarter and matching the preliminary estimate. It is the lowest annual growth rate since the second quarter of 2012 amid a slowdown in household spending, business investment and exports, the second estimate showed.

The British economy expanded 0.1 percent on quarter in the first three months of 2018, in line with the preliminary estimate and well below 0.4 percent in the previous period. It is the lowest growth rate since a 0.1 percent contraction in Q4 2012, the second estimate showed.

Annual inflation in the UK edged down to 2.4 percent in April of 2018 from 2.5 percent in March, below market expectations of 2.5 percent. It is the lowest rate since March of 2017, mainly due to a slowdown in cost of transport amid a drop in air fares.

The unemployment rate in the UK stood at a 42-year low of 4.2 percent in the three months to March 2018, matching market expectations. The number of unemployed declined by 46,000 from the October to December period while employment increased by 197,000, the biggest quarterly increase since the end of 2015 and way above market expectations of a 130,000 gain.

The Bank of England voted by seven to two to keep the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent on May 10th, due to a sharp slowdown in GDP growth in the first quarter. Still, policymakers noted that wage growth and domestic cost pressures are firming gradually while CPI inflation is projected to fall back slightly more quickly than previously estimated. The bank also said that the recent weakness in data had been consistent with a temporary soft patch, suggesting an August rate hike is still on the table.

The UK's trade deficit widened by GBP 1.9 billion to GBP 3.091 billion in March 2018 from an upwardly revised GBP 1.176 billion in the previous month and above market expectations of a GBP 2 billion gap. It was the largest trade deficit since last June.

The British economy expanded by 1.2 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2018, missing market expectations of 1.4 percent, a preliminary estimate showed. It was the weakest pace of expansion since the second quarter of 2012.

The British economy grew by 0.1 percent on quarter in the three months to March 2018, easing from a 0.4 percent expansion in the previous period and missing market expectations of 0.3 percent, a preliminary estimate showed. It was the weakest growth rate since a 0.1 percent contraction recorded in the fourth quarter of 2012.

The unemployment rate in the UK fell to a new 42-year low of 4.2 percent in the three months to February 2018 from 4.3 percent in the September to November period and below market expectations of 4.3 percent. The number of unemployed declined by 16,000 while employment increased by 55,000, beating market expectations of a 33,000 gain.

The UK's trade deficit narrowed sharply by GBP 2.0 billion to GBP 0.965 billion in February 2018 from a downwardly revised GBP 2.949 billion in the previous month and below market expectations of a GBP 2.6 billion gap. It was the smallest trade deficit since September.

The British economy expanded by 1.4 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2017, unrevised from the second estimate and following a 1.8 percent growth in the previous period. It was the weakest pace of expansion since the second quarter of 2012.

The British economy grew by 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to December of 2017, unrevised from the second estimate and following a 0.5 percent expansion in the previous period. Fixed investment increased firmly despite a slowdown in business investment, while net trade contributed negatively to growth.

The Bank of England voted by seven to two to keep the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent on March 22nd, saying pay growth is likely to pick up in response to the tightening labour market and inflation is expected to remain above the 2 percent target in the short term. Also, the bank reiterated that an ongoing tightening of monetary policy over the forecast period will be appropriate to return inflation sustainably to its target, raising expectations of a May rate hike.

The unemployment rate in the UK stood at a 42-year low of 4.3 percent in the three months to January 2018, unchanged from the August to October period and below market expectations of 4.4 percent. The number of unemployed rose by 24,000 while employment increased by 168,000, beating market expectations of a 84,000 gain.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by GBP 0.6 billion to GBP 3.074 billion in January 2018 from a downwardly revised GBP 2.492 billion in the previous month, due primarily to an increase in goods imports including aircraft and cars from non-EU countries and fuels (refined oil) from EU countries.

The British economy expanded by 1.4 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2017, below a preliminary estimate of 1.5 percent and compared with an upwardly revised 1.8 percent growth in the previous period. It was the weakest pace of expansion since the second quarter of 2012.

The British economy grew by 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to December of 2017, below the preliminary estimate of 0.5 percent and following an upwardly revised 0.5 percent expansion in the previous period. Production output rose less than initially thought. On the expenditure side, there was a slowdown in growth of household spending and business investment.

The unemployment rate in the UK rose to 4.4 percent in the three months to December of 2017 from a 42-year low of 4.3 percent in the July to September period, while markets were expecting the rate to remain unchanged.

The rate of inflation across the UK stood at 3 percent in January 2018, unchanged from the previous month and above market expectations of 2.9 percent. Prices of recreation and culture rose further while cost of food and transportation increased at a softer pace.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by GBP 1.2 billion to GBP 4.896 billion in December 2017 from an upwardly revised GBP 3.652 billion in the previous month and way above market expectations of GBP 2.4 billion. It was the largest trade deficit since September 2016.

The Bank of England voted unanimously to keep the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent on February 8th as widely expected, saying that inflation is expected to remain around 3 percent in the short term, reflecting recent higher oil prices. The bank also warned that interest rates may rise sooner than anticipated, as the economy will expand faster than expected over the next couple of years lifting inflation above 2 percent target.

The British economy expanded by 1.5 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2017, beating market expectations of 1.4 percent, the preliminary estimate showed. Still, it was the weakest pace of expansion since the first quarter of 2013, as output rose at a slower pace for both manufacturing and construction.

The British economy grew by 0.5 percent on quarter in the three months to December 2017, beating market expectations of 0.4 percent, the preliminary estimate showed. The expansion was mainly driven by services and manufacturing while construction contracted for the third quarter in a row.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by GBP 0.5 billion to GBP 2.804 billion in November 2017 from an upwardly revised GBP 2.270 billion in the previous month. It was the largest trade deficit since June.

The British economy grew 1.7 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2017, above the preliminary estimate of 1.5 percent and following an upwardly revised 1.9 percent expansion in the previous period. Still, it was the weakest annual growth rate since the first quarter of 2013, as household consumption and fixed investment rose at a softer pace.

The British economy advanced 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2017, unrevised from the second estimate and following a 0.3 percent expansion in the previous period. Household consumption rose at stronger pace while fixed investment growth softened.

The Bank of England voted unanimously to keep the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent on December 14th as widely expected, following a 25bps hike in the previous meeting. The Committee also voted unanimously to keep the stock of UK government bond purchases at £435 billion and the stock of sterling non-financial investment-grade corporate bond purchases at £10 billion.

UK unemployment rate stood at a 42-year low of 4.3 percent in the three months to October of 2017, unchanged from the May to July period and slightly above market expectations of 4.2 percent. The number of unemployed continued to fall and that of people in work declined for the second month in a row.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 3.1 percent in the year to November 2017, following a 3 percent gain in the previous month and beating market expectations of 3 percent. It was the highest inflation rate since March 2012, mainly due to rising prices of transport, leisure activities, restaurants and hotels, housing and food.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services increased to GBP 1.41 billion in October of 2017 from a downwardly revised GBP 1.14 billion gap in September but way below market expectations of a GBP 3 billion gap. Both exports and imports reached record values although purchases rose at a faster pace, mainly due to unspecified goods (including non-monetary gold) from non-EU countries.

The British economy grew 1.5 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2017, unrevised from the preliminary estimate and the same pace as in the previous period. It was the weakest annual growth rate since the first quarter of 2013, as fixed investment rose at a softer pace.

The British economy advanced 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2017, unrevised from the preliminary estimate and following a 0.3 percent expansion in the previous period. Household consumption rose at stronger pace, with car purchases recovering somewhat from a low Q2, while business investment growth softened.

The jobless rate in the United Kingdom came in at 4.3 percent in the three months to September of 2017, in line with market expectations and remaining the lowest rate since 1975. On the other hand, employment declined the most in nearly two years and real wages continued to decrease.

Consumer prices in the UK increased 3 percent yoy in October, the same as in September and below expectations of 3.1 percent. Still, it was the highest inflation rate since March 2012, with prices of food, housing, utilities and recreational goods making the biggest upward contribution.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services narrowed by GBP 0.70 billion to GBP 2.75 billion in September 2017 from a downwardly revised GBP 3.46 billion gap in August and way below market expectations of a GBP 4.60 billion gap. It was the smallest trade deficit since May.

The Bank of England raised its benchmark Bank Rate by 25bps to 0.5 percent on November 2nd 2017, in line with market expectations, signalling the beginning of a gradual tightening process. It is the first rate increase in a decade after inflation stayed well above the 2 percent target for the eighth straight month in September amid a weaker sterling and higher energy prices. Policymakers said the inflation is expected to fall in 2018, conditioned on the gently rising path of the Bank Rate. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted by a majority of 7-2 to increase the Bank Rate but voted unanimously to maintain the stock of sterling non-financial investment-grade corporate bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, at £10 billion and the stock of UK government bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, at £435 billion.

The British economy advanced 1.5 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2017, the same pace as in the previous period and better than market expectations of 1.4 percent, the preliminary estimate showed. Still, it was the weakest pace of expansion since Q1 2013, as output growth slowed for services and construction, while industrial production increased at faster pace.

The British economy advanced 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to September 2017, beating market expectations of 0.3 percent, the preliminary estimate showed. The expansion was mainly driven by services boosted by computer programming, motor trades and retail trade. Also, manufacturing returned to growth after a weak performance in the previous period while construction contracted for the second quarter in a row.

UK unemployment rate declined to 4.3 percent in the three months to August of 2017 from 4.5 percent in the March to May period, in line with market expectations. It was the lowest jobless rate since 1975, as the number of unemployed continued to fall.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 3 percent in the year to September 2017, as widely expected, following a 2.9 percent gain in the previous month. It was the highest inflation rate since April 2012, mainly due to rising prices of food, transport and leisure activities.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by GBP 1.39 billion to GBP 5.63 billion in August 2017 from an upwardly revised GBP 4.24 billion gap in July and way above market expectations of a GBP 2.80 billion gap. It was the largest trade deficit since September last year, as the goods trade gap hit a record high.

The British economy grew 1.5 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2017, below the second estimate of 1.7 percent and following a downwardly revised 1.8 percent expansion in the previous period. It was the lowest annual growth rate since the first quarter of 2013, as household spending and fixed investment rose at softer.

The UK economy expanded 0.3 percent on quarter in the three months to June of 2017, unrevised from the second estimate of GDP and following an upwardly revised 0.3 percent expansion in the previous period. Fixed investment was the main driver of growth while household expenditure rose at a slower pace. From the production side, the services industries were the only positive contributor to output GDP growth.

The withdrawal of monetary stimulus is likely to be appropriate over the coming months, if the economy and price pressures keep growing, Bank of England Governor Mark Carney said in a speech at the IMF on Monday. Still, there are considerable risks to the UK outlook, which include the response of households, businesses and financial markets to developments related to the process of EU withdrawal, he added.

The Bank of England voted by seven to two to keep the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent on September 14th, 2017, as widely expected, saying estimates of private final demand were softer than anticipated and underlying pay growth has shown some signs of recovery, albeit remaining modest. Still, policymakers agreed that some withdrawal of monetary stimulus is likely to be appropriate over the coming months if the economy continues to grow and underlying inflationary pressures persist.

UK unemployment rate declined to 4.3 percent in the three months to July of 2017 from 4.6 percent in the February to April period and below market expectations of 4.4 percent. It was the lowest jobless rate since the three months to May of 1975, as the number of unemployed continued to fall.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 2.9 percent in the year to August 2017, beating market expectations of 2.8 percent and following a 2.6 percent gain in the previous month. Rising prices for clothing and motor fuels were the main contributors to the increase.

The British economy grew 1.7 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2017, unrevised from the preliminary estimate and following a 2 percent expansion in the previous period. It was the lowest annual growth rate since the second quarter of last year, as household spending rose at softer pace while business investment stalled.

The UK economy advanced 0.3 percent on quarter in the three months to June of 2017, unrevised from the preliminary estimate and following a 0.2 percent expansion in the previous period. There was relatively strong growth in government spending and investment, while household consumption rose at softer pace and business investment stalled.

UK unemployment rate dropped to a fresh 42-year low of 4.4 percent in the three months to June of 2017, beating market expectations of 4.5 percent. The employment rate rose to an all-time high of 75.1 percent as the number of people in work rose by 125 thousand.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 2.6 percent in the year to July 2017, the same pace as in June and missing market expectations of a 2.7 percent gain. Prices rose further for housing and utilities, food and non-alcoholic beverages, clothing and household goods, while cost of transport, recreation and culture, and restaurants and hotels went up at a slower pace.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by £2.0 billion to £4.56 billion in June 2017 from a revised £2.52 billion in May. It was the biggest trade gap since September last year, as imports rose in the month by 3.3 percent to an all-time high of £53.95 billion, due to an increase in purchases of both goods and services. Exports dropped 0.7 percent to £49.39 billion.

The Bank of England voted by six to two to keep the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent on August 3rd, 2017, as widely expected, saying GDP growth is expected to remain sluggish in the near term as the squeeze on households' real incomes continues to weigh on consumption. Also, the Committee voted unanimously to keep the stock of UK government bond purchases at £435 billion and the stock of sterling non-financial investment-grade corporate bond purchases at £10 billion. Meanwhile, the central bank cut its UK growth forecast for this year to 1.7 percent from an earlier estimate of 1.9 percent, while next year it predicts 1.6 percent growth compared to its previous 1.7 percent forecast.

The British economy grew 1.7 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2017, in line with market expectations and easing from a 2 percent expansion in the previous period, a preliminary estimate showed. It was the lowest annual growth rate since the second quarter of last year, as production contracted while services and construction continued to grow.

The British economy advanced 0.3 percent on quarter in the three months to June 2017, in line with market expectations and following a 0.2 percent expansion in the previous period, a preliminary estimate showed. The growth was driven by services mainly boosted by retail trade and film production and distribution, while construction and manufacturing contracted.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 2.6 percent in the year to June 2017, easing from a four-year high of 2.9 percent in May and missing market expectations of a 2.9 percent gain. It was the lowest inflation rate in three months, as prices rose at a slower pace for motor fuels and certain recreational and cultural goods and services.

The unemployment rate in the UK fell to 4.5 percent in the three months to May of 2017, below 4.6 percent in the previous period and market forecasts of 4.6 percent. It is the lowest jobless rate since June of 1975. Earnings including bonuses rose 1.8 percent year-on-year, the weakest gain since the three months to November 2014. Adjusted for inflation, pay growth fell 0.7 percent, the sharpest drop since 2014.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by £1.0 billion to £3.1 billion in May 2017 from an upwardly revised £2.1 billion in April. Imports rose in the month by 2.7 percent to £52.7 billion, due to an increase in imports of goods. Exports grew at a slower 0.9 percent to £49.7 billion.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 2 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2017, following a 1.9 percent growth in the previous period and in line with the previous estimate. Fixed investment rose at a faster pace, with business investment increasing for the first time in over a year, while household spending growth slowed and net trade contributed negatively.

The UK economy advanced 0.2 percent on quarter in the three months to March of 2017, unchanged from the previous estimate, and following a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period. It was the weakest growth rate in one year, as household spending slowed while business investment rebounded. On the production side, growth was driven by output from the business services and finance, and construction industries, partially offset by declines in some consumer-focused industries.

The Bank of England voted by five to three to keep the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent on June 15th, 2017, as widely expected. Policymakers showed concerns over rising inflation and slow pay growth and the effects on household spending and GDP. The Committee voted unanimously to maintain the stock of sterling non-financial investment-grade corporate bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, at £10 billion. The Committee also voted unanimously to keep the stock of UK government bond purchases, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, at £435 billion.

UK unemployment rate held at a 42-year low of 4.6 percent in the three months to April 2017, in line with market expectations. The employment rate remained at an all-time high of 74.8 percent, as the number of people in work went up by 109 thousand. Meanwhile, total pay adjusted for price inflation decreased by 0.4 percent from the previous year, the biggest drop since the three months to September 2014.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom increased 2.9 percent year-on-year in May of 2017, higher than 2.7 percent in April and above market expectations of 2.7 percent. It is the biggest inflation rate since June of 2013, driven by cost of games, toys, holidays abroad, food, clothing and electricity.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services narrowed by £1.8 billion to £2.1 billion in April 2017 from a downwardly revised £3.9 billion in March. Imports declined in the month by 3.5 percent to £51.9 billion from an all-time high of £53.7 billion, due to a decrease in purchases of mechanical machinery, oil and cars. Exports also fell slightly by 0.1 percent to £49.8 billion, almost unchanged from the previous month's record high.

Britain's economy accelerated at the end of last year but signs of weakness emerged during the first months of 2017, suggesting the Brexit is starting to take its toll on household spending. The situation may get even worse following UK General Election on June 8th. If Theresa May does not win a majority on Thursday’s election as predicted just a month ago, her ability to drive Brexit reform through parliament will be diminished.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 2 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2017, following a 1.9 percent growth in the previous period but below the preliminary estimate of 2.1 percent. Fixed investment rose at a faster pace as business investment increased for the first time in over a year while household spending slowed and net trade contributed negatively.

The UK economy advanced 0.2 percent on quarter in the three months to March of 2017, below the preliminary estimate of 0.3 percent, mainly due to broad-based downward revisions within the services sector. On the expenditure side, household spending slowed while business investment rebounded.

UK unemployment rate fell to 4.6 percent in the three months to March 2017 from 4.7 percent in the previous period and below market expectations of 4.7 percent. It was the lowest jobless rate since July of 1975. The employment rate rose to a fresh all-time high of 74.8 percent, as the number of people in work went up by 122 thousand. Meanwhile, excluding the bonuses, pay adjusted for price inflation decreased by 0.2 percent from the previous year, the first decline since the third quarter of 2014.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom increased 2.7 percent year-on-year in April of 2017, following a 2.3 percent rise in each of the previous two months and above market expectations of 2.6 percent. It is the highest inflation rate since September of 2013, mainly due to rising air fares and electricity prices. The inflation rate has been on an upward trend since the Brexit vote last year due to a fall in the sterling value.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted by a majority of 7-1 to maintain Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent on May 11th, 2017, as widely expected, saying the continuing suitability of the current policy stance depends on the trade-off between above-target inflation and slack in the economy, as well as the prospects for inflation to return sustainably to target. The MPC was unanimous in its decision to keep the stock of UK government bond purchases unchanged at £435 billion.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by £2.3 billion to £4.9 billion in March 2017 from a downwardly revised £2.7 billion in February. Imports increased in the month by £2.9 billion to a new record high of £53.9 billion, due to an increase in purchases of goods from both EU and non-EU countries. Exports increased by £0.6 billion to £49.0 billion.

The British economy grew 2.1 percent, accelerating from a 1.9 percent expansion in the previous period but missing market expectations of a 2.2 percent gain, a preliminary estimate showed. Total production increased further, boosted mainly by manufacturing; while output grew at a slower pace for both services and construction.

The British economy advanced 0.3 percent on quarter in the three months to March 2017, easing from a 0.7 percent growth in the previous period and below market expectations of a 0.4 percent expansion, a preliminary estimate showed. It was the slowest rate of growth since the first quarter of 2016, as services output expanded at a slower pace.

UK unemployment rate held at an almost 12-year low of 4.7 percent in the three months to February 2017, in line with market expectations. The employment rate stood at an all-time high of 74.6 percent as the number of people in work rose by 39 thousand.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 2.3 percent in the year to March 2017, the same pace as in February and in line with market expectations. The inflation rate remained at its highest level since September 2013, mainly boosted by rising prices for food, alcohol and tobacco, clothing and footwear, and miscellaneous goods and services.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by £0.7 billion to £3.7 billion in February 2017 from an upwardly revised £3.0 billion in January. Imports increased in the month by £0.3 billion to a new record of £52.1 billion, due to an increase in purchases of goods from the EU. Exports decreased by £0.4 billion to £48.5 billion, led by a decrease in exports of trade in services of £0.3 billion.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 1.9 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2016, following a 2 percent expansion in the previous period and below the second estimate of 2 percent. Fixed investment and household consumption were the main drivers of growth while business investment contracted for the fourth straight period. Looking at 2016 as a whole, growth slowed to 1.8 percent from 2.2 percent in 2015 and 3.1 percent in 2014.

The British economy advanced 0.7 percent on quarter in the three months to December of 2016, following a downwardly revised 0.5 percent expansion in the previous period and in line with a second estimate. Net trade and consumer spending boosted growth while business investment contracted.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom increased 2.3 percent year-on-year in February of 2017, above 1.8 percent in January and beating expectations of 2.1 percent. It is the highest inflation rate since September of 2013, boosted by rising fuel prices while food cost increased for the first time in 34 months.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee kept the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent and left the stock of purchased assets at £435 billion on March 16th, 2017, in line with forecasts. Policymakers expect a slowdown in aggregate demand during this year and a rise in inflation to above the 2 percent target in the next few months.

UK unemployment rate fell to 4.7 percent in the period between November and January 2017 from 4.8 percent in the previous period and below market expectations of 4.8 percent. It was the lowest jobless rate since July to September 2005. The employment rate remained at all-time high of 74.6 percent as the number of people in work rose by 92 thousand while wage growth slowed.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services decreased slightly by £0.1 billion to £1.97 billion in January 2017 from a downwardly revised £2.03 billion in December. Exports advanced by £0.4 billion to an all-time high of £49.4 billion, boosted by higher sales of machinery and transport equipment, mainly electrical machinery and cars, and chemicals; and imports increased by £0.3 billion also to a record £51.4 billion, as purchases of oil and chemicals rose the most.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 2 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2016, the same as in the previous period and below the preliminary estimate of 2.2 percent. Fixed investment and household consumption were the main drivers of growth while business investment contracted for the fourth straight period.

The British economy advanced 0.7 percent on quarter in the three months to December of 2016, following a 0.6 percent expansion in the previous period and above the preliminary estimate of 0.6 percent, due to upward revisions within the manufacturing industries. On the expenditure side, exports rebounded sharply while household expenditure rose at a slower pace and business investment contracted.

UK unemployment rate held at an 11-year low of 4.8 percent in the period between October and December 2016, in line with market expectations. The employment rate hit a new all-time high of 74.6 percent as the number of people in work rose by 37 thousand while wage growth slowed.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose by 1.8 percent in the year to January 2017, following an 1.6 percent gain in the previous month but below market expectations of 1.9 percent increase. Still, it was the highest inflation rate since June 2014, mainly boosted by rising cost of fuel.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services narrowed by £0.3 billion to £3.3 billion in December 2016 from a downwardly revised £3.6 billion in the previous month. Exports rose by 2.4 percent to an all-time high of £48.8 billion, while imports increased at a slower 1.7 percent also to a record £52.1 billion.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to hold the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent and to leave the stock of purchased assets at £435 billion on February 2nd, 2017, saying inflation is likely to return to around the 2 percent target by February and then rise above it over the following months.

The British economy expanded by 2.2 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2016, the same pace as in the previous period and beating market expectations of 2.1 percent growth, the preliminary estimate showed. Total production increased further, boosted by manufacturing and utilities while services and construction advanced at a slower pace. Looking at 2016 as a whole, growth slowed modestly to 2 percent from 2.2 percent in 2015 and 3.1 percent in 2014.

The UK economy advanced 0.6 percent on quarter in the three months to December of 2016, the same pace as in the previous period and better than market expectations of a 0.5 percent expansion, preliminary estimates showed. Services industries were the main drivers of growth, with a strong contribution from retail sales and travel agency services. Meanwhile, construction recovered slightly and production industries showed no growth, as a sharp contraction in mining and oil production offset a rebound in manufacturing and utilities.

UK jobless rate remained at 4.8 percent in the three months to November of 2016, the same as in the previous period and in line with market expectations. The employment rate held at an all-time high of 74.5 percent and wages grew at a faster pace while the number of people in work fell by 9,000.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom rose 1.6 percent year-on-year in December of 2016, higher than 1.2 percent in November and above market expectations of 1.4 percent. It is the highest inflation rate since July of 2014, boosted by rising cost of transport and housing and utilities amid a weaker pound.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services widened by £2.6 billion to £4.2 billion in November 2016 from a downwardly revised £1.5 billion in the previous month. Exports rose by £0.7 billion to an all-time high of £47.3 billion while imports increased at a much faster £3.3 billion also to a record £51.5 billion , mainly boosted by higher purchases of machinery and transport equipment.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 2.2 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2016, accelerating from a downwardly revised 2 percent growth in the previous period but below the second estimate of a 2.3 percent gain. It was the strongest reading since the second quarter of 2015, mainly boosted by gross fixed capital formation.

The British economy advanced 0.6 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2016, the same as in the previous period and better than the second estimate of 0.5 percent expansion. Household expenditure continued to grow while fixed investment rose at a slower pace and net external demand contributed negatively. Compared with the same period of 2015, the economy advanced 2.2 percent following a downwardly revised 2 percent expansion in the precedent quarter and missing the second estimate of 2.3 percent gain.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to hold the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent and to leave the stock of purchased assets at £435 billion on December 15th, 2016, in order to meet the 2 percent inflation target, in a way that helps to sustain growth and employment. Policymakers reiterated that the path of monetary policy would depend on the evolution of the prospects for demand, supply, the exchange rate, and therefore inflation.

UK jobless rate declined to 4.8 percent in the three months to October 2016 from 4.9 percent in the May to July period and 5.2 percent a year earlier. The figure came in line with market expectations and hit the lowest level since July to September 2005, as the number of unemployed went down while the number of people in work was little changed.

British consumer prices rose 1.2 percent in a year to November 2016, compared with a 0.9 percent growth in October and above market expectations of 1.1 percent gain. It was the highest inflation rate since October 2014, boosted by cost of clothing and footwear, recreation and culture and furnishings. The core index which excludes prices of energy, food, alcohol and tobacco advanced 1.4 percent on the year. On a monthly basis, consumer prices edged up 0.2 percent, in a line with market consensus.

The trade deficit in the United Kingdom narrowed by £3.8 billion to £2.0 billion in September 2016 from an upwardly revised £5.8 billion in the previous month. It was the smallest trade gap since May this year, as exports increased by 4.6 percent, boosted by a 8.7 percent rise in the export of goods, while imports declined by 3.6 percent.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 2.3 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2016, accelerating from a 2.1 percent growth in the previous period and in line with preliminary estimate. It was the strongest reading since the second quarter of 2015, boosted by net external demand and gross fixed capital formation.

The British economy advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2016, slowing from a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period and in line with the preliminary estimate. Net external demand was the main driver of growth, while household expenditure and fixed investment rose at a slower pace.

UK jobless rate declined to 4.8 percent in the three months to September 2016 from 4.9 percent in the April to June period and 5.3 percent a year earlier. The figure came in better than market expectations of 4.9 percent to hit the lowest level since July to September 2005, as the number of unemployed went down while the number of people in work increased.

British consumer prices rose 0.9 percent in the year to October 2016, compared with a 1 percent growth in the year to September and below market expectations of 1.1 percent gain. Prices for motor fuels, housing and furniture increased while cost of clothing fell.

The trade gap in the United Kingdom widened by GBP 1.4 billion to GBP 5.2 billion in September from August of 2016, reaching the highest in three months. Exports fell 0.4 percent while imports jumped 2.5 percent, hitting a record high and boosted by purchases of ships, material manufactures, road vehicles and oil.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to hold the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent and to leave the stock of purchased assets at £435 billion on November 3rd, 2016, in order to meet the 2 percent inflation target, in a way that helps to sustain growth and employment. Meanwhile, the Committee has dropped its plans for another rate cut as the inflation rate is expected to rise way above the central bank's target over the next three years. Policymakers also said rates could move in either direction depending on changes to the economic outlook.

The UK economy advanced 2.3 percent year-on-year in the three months to September of 2016, better than a 2.1 percent expansion in the previous period and above market expectations of 2.1 percent, preliminary estimates showed. It is the best performance since the second quarter of 2015 and the first GDP figure covering a full quarter following the EU referendum, suggesting growth continues to be broadly unaffected.

The UK economy advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2016, slowing from a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period but better than market expectations of 0.3 percent, preliminary estimates showed. It is the first GDP figure covering a full quarter following the EU referendum, suggesting growth continues to be broadly unaffected with a strong performance in the services industries offsetting falls in other industrial groups.

UK jobless rate remained unchanged at 4.9 percent for the fourth consecutive month in the three months to August 2016, in line with market expectations. It stood at its lowest level in eleven years, as the number of people in work and the number of unemployed people increased, while the number of economically inactive people fell.

British consumer prices rose 1% in the year to September 2016, following 0.6% growth in August and above market expectations of 0.9% gain. It was the highest inflation rate since November 2014 boosted by higher cost of clothing, motor fuels and hotels amid a weaker pound.

The trade gap in the United Kingdom widened by GBP 2.5 billion to GBP 4.7 billion in August from July of 2016. Imports jumped 5.5 percent boosted by electrical machinery and aircraft while exports edged up a meager 0.1 percent.

The British economy advanced 2.1 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2016, 0.1 percentage point lower than previously estimated, and following a 2 percent expansion in the previous period. Consumer spending and investment accelerated, final figures showed.

UK's gross domestic product expanded 0.7 percent quarter-on-quarter in the three months to June of 2016, revised up from 0.6 percent previously estimated and higher than a 0.4 percent gain in the previous period. It was the 14th consecutive quarter of expansion, as household spending and fixed investment were the main drivers of growth, final figures showed.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to hold the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.25 percent and to leave the stock of purchased assets at £435 billion on September 15th 2016, in order to bring inflation back to 2% target and to support growth and employment. The central bank also said that a majority of members would support a further rate cut in November if the outlook at that time is consistent with the August Inflation Report projections.

UK jobless rate held steady at 4.9 percent in the three months to July of 2016, the same as in the previous period and in line with market expectations. The number of unemployed declined, employment increased and the employment rate remained at the highest since the series began although wage growth slowed.

British consumer prices rose 0.6% in the year to August 2016, unchanged from July while markets were expecting a 0.7% gain amid a weaker pound. Transport prices rose further and cost of food fell at a slower pace while lower prices for housing and clothing weighed on inflation.

The trade deficit in the United Kingdom narrowed by £1.1 billion to £4.5 billion in July 2016 from an upwardly revised £5.6 billion in June. Exports increased by 1.9 percent, boosted by a 3.4 percent rise in the export of goods, while imports declined by 0.5 percent. Between the 3 months to April 2016 and the 3 months to July 2016, the total trade deficit widened by £5.1 billion to £14.1 billion, the widest deficit since the 3 months to December 2013.

The British economy advanced 2.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2016, following a 2 percent expansion in the previous period and in line with preliminary figures. Consumer spending and investment accelerated, figures from the second estimate showed.

The British economy expanded 0.6 percent on quarter in the three months to June of 2016, higher than a 0.4 percent growth in the previous quarter and in line with the preliminary reading. Household spending boosted growth and investment rebounded, figures from the second estimate showed.

The unemployment rate in the United Kingdom came in at 4.9 percent in the three months to June 2016, unchanged from the previous period and in line with market expectations. It remained at the lowest level since July to September 2005, as the number of unemployed reached the lowest since March to May 2008 while the number of people in work increased.

Consumer prices in the UK increased 0.6% yoy in July, first month after the UK voted to leave the EU, following a 0.5% rise in June and beating market expectations of a 0.5% gain. It was the highest number since November of 2014 boosted by rise in the cost of transportation, alcohol and hotel and restaurant.

The trade deficit in the United Kingdom widened sharply by £0.9 billion to £5.1 billion in June 2016 from an upwardly revised £4.2 billion in May. It was the biggest deficit since July last year, as exports increased by 2.4 percent while imports increased at a faster 4 percent to a record high of £48.9 billion.

The Bank of England has launched a huge new stimulus package on August 4th in order to mitigate the damage the Brexit vote would have on the UK economy. The package includes: a 25 basis point cut in Bank Rate to 0.25%; a new Term Funding Scheme to reinforce the pass-through of the cut in Bank Rate; the purchase of up to £10 billion of UK corporate bonds; and an expansion of the asset purchase scheme for UK government bonds of £60 billion to £435 billion.

The UK’s economy advanced 2.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2016, accelerating from a 2 percent rise in the previous period and beating market expectations of a 2 percent growth. It is the best performance in a year. Services and industrial production expanded at a faster pace while construction fell for the first time in three years, preliminary estimates showed.

The UK’s economy advanced 0.6 percent on quarter in the three months to June of 2016, higher than a 0.4 percent expansion in the previous period and better than market expectations of 0.4 percent. Industrial production rebounded and posted the biggest gain since 1999, boosted by mining, quarrying and manufacturing while services growth slowed and construction shrank for the second quarter, preliminary estimates showed.

The unemployment rate in the UK declined to 4.9 percent in the three months to May, the lowest figure since October of 2005. The number of unemployed reached the lowest since 2008, the employment rate increased to a fresh record high of 74.4 percent while earnings rose almost in line with expectations.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom went up 0.5 percent year-on-year in June of 2016, accelerating from a 0.3 percent increase in the previous two months and higher than market expectations of a 0.4 percent gain. Cost of housing and utilities increased for the first time in three months and recreation and culture recorded the biggest gain since October of 2014.

The Bank of England unexpectedly left the Bank rate unchanged at 0.5 percent and the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion at its July meeting, the first rate decision after the Brexit vote. Markets were expecting a 25bps cut, but only one MPC member voted for it. Most members expect monetary policy to be loosened in August, according to the statement said.

The trade gap in the United Kingdom widened slightly by GBP 0.6 billion to GBP 2.3 billion in May from April of 2016. Exports fell the most in ten months and imports declined for the first time this year.

The Bank of England is prepared to take whatever action is needed to support UK economy and it will likely have to cut interest rates over the summer, Bank of England Governor Carney said in a speech on June 30th. The Bank will also consider a host of other measures and policies to promote monetary and financial stability, he added.

The UK’s economy advanced 2 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2016, unchanged from the second estimate but higher than a downwardly revised 1.8 percent growth in the previous period. Consumer spending and exports went up faster than initially estimated while the fall in business investment was twice the expected, final figures showed.

The UK’s economy expanded 0.4 percent on quarter in the first three months of 2016, in line with preliminary estimates and slowing from an upwardly revised 0.7 percent expansion in the last quarter of 2015. Consumer spending was the main driver of growth while business investment shrank more than expected and exports declined the most in six quarters, final figures showed.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on June 16th, 2016 as widely expected. Policymakers reinforced that the most significant risks concern the UK referendum on EU membership.

British unemployment rate decreased to 5 percent in the three months to April of 2016 from 5.1 percent in the previous five periods. It is the lowest figure since October of 2005 as the number of unemployed fell to a 7-year low, the employment rate remained a record high 74.2 percent and pay growth picked up.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom increased 0.3 percent year-on-year in May of 2016, the same as in April and below market expectations of a 0.4 percent increase. Transport prices declined less while food deflation deepened.

British trade gap declined to GBP 3294 million in April of 2016 from a downwardly revised GBP 3532 million shortfall in March. It is the lowest deficit since September last year as exports of both goods and services recorded the biggest rise in more than six years, boosted by sales of chemicals, machinery, oil, cars, clothing, beverages and aircraft.

The British economy expanded 2 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2016, lower than a 2.1 percent initial estimate and a 2.1 percent rise in the previous period. It is the weakest growth rate in three years, due to a slowdown in household consumption, exports and a fall in business investment.

The British economy expanded 0.4 percent on quarter in the first three months of 2016, slowing from a 0.6 percent growth in the previous period and matching preliminary estimates. Household spending continued to support growth while exports shrank and business investment contracted for the second straight quarter amid uncertain results for the EU Membership referendum.

British unemployment rate was recorded at 5.1 percent in the three months to March of 2016, unchanged from the previous four periods. While the number of unemployed fell slightly, the number of employed increased, bringing the employment rate to a record high of 74.2 percent.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom went up 0.3% yoy in April, slowing from a 15-month high of 0.5% in March and lower than market expectations of a 0.5% gain. It is the first drop in inflation rate since September as cost of air fares, vehicles, fuels and lubricants and electricity declined.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on May 12th, 2016 as widely expected. The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on May 12th, 2016 as widely expected. Policymakers lowered growth forecasts, saying there are increasing signs that uncertainty associated with the EU referendum has begun to weigh on activity but left inflation projections roughly unchanged.

British trade gap declined for the second straight month to GBP 3.83 billion in March of 2016 from a downwardly revised GDP 4.3 billion deficit in February as exports gained the most in six months. However, the gap for the first quarter was the highest in eight years as weak external demand weighed on exports.

The UK GDP advanced 2.1 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2016, the same as in the previous period and better than market expectations of a 2 percent expansion, preliminary estimates showed. Yet, it is the lowest performance in three years as industrial output grew only slightly and construction fell while the services sector boosted the expansion.

The British economy expanded 0.4 percent on quarter in the first three months of 2016, slowing from a 0.6 percent growth in the previous period and in line with market expectations, preliminary figures showed. The services sector led the expansion industrial production, construction and agriculture shrank.

British jobless rate came in at 5.1 percent in the three months to February of 2016, the same as in the previous three periods, staying at the lowest in nearly ten years. Figures came in line with market expectations although the number of people unemployed increased for the first time since mid-2015 and the employment gain was the weakest since June.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on April 14th, 2016 as widely expected. Policymakers said there had been signs that uncertainty surrounding the referendum on UK membership of the European Union had begun to weigh on growth. At its March meeting, the central bank had already noted that the UK’s EU referendum could delay spending decisions and depress growth.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom went up 0.5 percent year-on-year in March of 2016, following a 0.3 percent rise in the previous two months and compared to market expectations of a 0.4 percent increase. It is the highest inflation rate since December of 2014, due to rising cost for housing and utilities, restaurants and hotels and clothing and footwear while transport fell at a slower pace.

British trade gap narrowed to GDP 4.84 billion in February of 2016 from an upwardly revised GBP 5.2 billion deficit in the previous month as exports recovered and imports were flat. However, the trade in goods deficit was the widest ever for a February month and the trade gap with the European Union increased to a fresh record high of GBP 8.6 billion.

The British economy expanded 2.1 percent year-on-year in the last three months of 2015, higher than preliminary estimates of 1.9 percent and slightly below an upwardly revised 2.2 percent gain in the third quarter of the year. Exports and consumption of non-profit institutions increased more than anticipated, offsetting lower growth rates for household spending and investment.

The British economy advanced 0.6 percent on quarter in the last three months of 2015, higher than a 0.5 percent estimate earlier released and compared to a 0.4 percent growth in the previous quarter. Consumer demand remained the main driver of growth and the negative impact from trade came lower than expected while the drag from business investment was larger.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom went up 0.3 percent year-on-year in February of 2016, the same as in January and below market expectations of 0.4 percent. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose 0.2 percent, rebounding from a 0.8 percent decline in the previous month.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on March 17th, 2016 as widely expected. Policymakers said inflation remains weak and noted that the uncertainty surrounding the referendum on UK membership of the European Union may delay spending decisions and depress growth.

British jobless rate came in at 5.1 percent in the three months to January of 2016, the same as in the previous two periods, staying at the lowest in nearly ten years. Pay growth including bonus went up 2.1 percent and excluding bonus it went up 2.2 percent, above expectations.

British trade gap narrowed to GBP 3.45 billion in January of 2016 from an upwardly revised GBP 3.69 billion shortfall in December. It is the lowest trade deficit in four months, due to a drop in imports of unspecified goods and fuels. However, the country's trade deficit in goods with the European Union widened to GBP 8.1 billion, the largest gap on record.

The British economy advanced 1.9 percent year-on-year in the last three months of 2015, slowing from a 2.1 percent growth in the previous period, in line with preliminary estimates. It is the worst performance since the first three months of 2013 mainly due to a slowdown in gross fixed capital formation and exports, figures from ONS second estimate showed.

The British economy advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the last three months of 2015, in line with the preliminary estimate. Growth was mainly driven by household spending while gross fixed capital formation and exports decreased, figures from ONS second estimate showed.

British jobless rate came in at 5.1 percent in the three months to December of 2015, the same as in the previous period, staying at the lowest in nearly ten years. Pay growth including bonus eased to 1.9 percent while excluding bonus it went up 2 percent, above expectations.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom increased 0.3 percent year-on-year in January of 2016, following a 0.2 percent rise in the previous month and matching preliminary estimates. It is the highest figure since January of 2015 due to rising housing and utilities cost while prices of food and recreation and culture fell at a slower pace. On a monthly basis, consumer prices declined 0.8 percent, the biggest drop in twelve months.

British trade gap narrowed to GBP 2.7 billion in December of 2015 from an upwardly revised GBP 4.03 billion shortfall in November. It is the lowest trade deficit in three months, due to a drop in imports of unspecified goods while falling oil prices brought oil purchases down to its lowest since February of 2009.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on February 4th, 2016. One policymaker has been voting for a rate hike since last summer but dropped its call as growth and inflation forecasts were lowered, signaling rates are likely to remain at record low for at least this year.

The British economy advanced 1.9 percent year-on-year in the last three months of 2015, slowing from a 2.1 percent growth in the previous period, preliminary estimates showed. It is the worst performance since the first three months of 2013 as expansion in the services and industry slowed.

The British economy advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the last three months of 2015, accelerating from a 0.4 percent growth in the previous period and in line with market expectations, preliminary estimates showed. Services contributed 0.52 percentage point to the expansion while industry subtracted 0.03 percentage point.

As UK growth has slowed and inflation would remain low, is not yet the time to raise interest rates, Governor Mark Carney said in a speech at Queen Mary University in London. The governor also pointed Chinese economic slowdown, falling oil prices and gloomier global outlook as delaying factor.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom edged up 0.2 percent year-on-year in December of 2015, the highest figure since January and in line with market expectations while core inflation accelerated for the third straight month to 1.4 percent. However, inflation for 2015 was 0 percent for the first time since records began in 1950, well below the Bank of England's 2 percent target.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted by a majority of 8-1 to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and unanimously to leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion on January 14th, 2016 as widely expected. Policymakers said the outlook for growth and inflation weakened and noticed past appreciation of the pound, weak global inflation and restrained domestic cost growth are also dragging consumer prices down in addition to falling oil.

The British economy advanced 2.1 percent year-on-year in the three months to September of 2015, lower than a 2.3 percent gain initially reported and lower than a downwardly revised 2.3 percent increase in the previous period. The final release from the ONS confirmed the economy posted the worst performance since the third quarter of 2013.

The UK economy advanced 0.4 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2015, lower than preliminary estimates of a 0.5 percent gain and slowing from a downwardly revised 0.5 percent expansion in the previous period. Gross capital formation and public spending grew less than anticipated while the drag from net external trade was smaller than expected, final figures showed.

British jobless rate decreased to 5.2 percent in the three months to October of 2015, lower than 5.3 percent in the previous period. The unemployment rate fell for the fourth straight period to its lowest since the three months to May of 2008. However, earnings grew at its slowest pace since March.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom went up 0.1 percent year-on-year in November of 2015, rebounding from a 0.1 percent fall in the previous two months, boosted by higher cost of housing, utilities, restaurants and hotels while transport and food prices decreased at a slower pace. On a monthly basis, consumer prices were flat, mainly due to falling clothing prices.

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted by a majority of 8-1 to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and unanimously to leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion at its December 2015 meeting, as widely expected. Policymakers showed concerns over slower wage growth.

UK trade gap widened to GBP 4.14 billion in October compared to a downwardly revised GBP 1.07 billion in September as imports surged 5.4 percent and exports declined 1.6 percent. Excluding oil and other volatile goods, the deficit was the highest since records began in 1998.

The British economy advanced 2.3 percent year-on-year in the three months to September of 2015, slowing from a 2.4 percent expansion in the previous period and in line with preliminary estimates. The second release from the ONS confirmed the economy posted the worst performance since the third quarter of 2013 as imports grew faster than exports, bringing net external trade contribution to negative.

The UK economy advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2015, slowing from a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period and in line with the preliminary estimate. Gross capital formation rebounded while net external proved a drag of 1.5 percentage points on overall growth in the quarter, figures from the ONS second estimate showed.

Bank of England's key rate has been at 0.5 percent for more than six years and is likely to remain steady until the end of 2016, as inflation rate remains well below 2 percent target and growth outlook has weakened. Indeed, market predictions from to the Bank of England's quarterly Inflation Report point to an interest rate of 1.1 percent by the end of 2016, 1.7 percent by the end of 2017 and 2.3 percent by the end of 2018.

Consumer prices in the UK dropped 0.1% yoy in October, the same as in September and in line with market expectations. It is the first time in half a century CPI have fallen on an annual basis for two months in a row. On a monthly basis, the inflation rate was 0.1 percent, rebounding from -0.1 percent in September.

British jobless rate decreased to 5.3 percent in the three months to September of 2015, down from 5.4 percent in the previous period and below market expectations. It is the lowest level since the three months to April of 2008 as the employment rate hit a fresh record high, the inactivity rate hit the lowest since 1991 while pay growth came in below expectations.

UK trade gap in goods and services decreased to £1.353 billion in September of 2015 from a downwardly revised £2.9 billion shortfall in August. Lower than expected deficit can be mostly attributed to rise in exports of goods (by £600m in the month to £24bn) and decline in imports of goods (by £900m to £33.3 billion).

The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee voted by a majority of 8-1 to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and unanimously to leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion at its November 2015 meeting. Policymakers lowered its inflation and growth forecasts and said outlook for global growth has weakened, signaling the central bank is in no rush to raise rates.

The British economy advanced 2.3 percent year-on-year in the three months to September of 2015, slowing from a 2.4 percent expansion in the previous period. It is the worst performance since the third quarter of 2013, preliminary estimates showed.

The British economy advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2015, slowing from a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period, according to preliminary estimates. Figures came lower than expected, as construction declined the most in three years and manufacturing remained depressed.

British jobless rate decreased to 5.4 percent in the three months to August of 2015, down from 5.5 percent in the previous period and the lowest since March to May of 2008. The employment rate reached the highest on record while pay growth came slightly below expectations.

Consumer prices in the United Kingdom decreased 0.1 percent year-on-year in September of 2015, due to falling fuel, food and clothing and footwear cost. It is the first annual drop since April, below market expectations.

The Monetary Policy Committee voted by a majority of 8-1 to maintain the Bank Rate at 0.5 percent and unanimously to leave the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion at its October 2015 meeting. Policymakers now expect a softer outlook for inflation and growth and showed concerns that global economic and financial developments may restrain economic activity.

The British economy expanded 2.4 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2015, compared to 2.6 percent earlier reported and marking the lowest growth rate in seven quarters. All expenditure components grew less than previously estimated.

The jobless rate in the UK decreased to 5.5 percent in the three months to July of 2015 from 5.6 percent in the previous period. Wages rose at fastest pace in more than six years and well above the inflation rate, signaling further strength of the labor market.

British inflation rate decreased to 0 percent in August of 2015 from 0.1 percent in July, in line with market expectations as falling oil prices keep dragging transport cost down. However, the monthly rate posted the first rise in three months, up 0.2 percent.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.4 billion in July 2015, £2.6 billion more compared with June 2015 as exports of goods plunged 9.5 percent and imports rose by 0.5 percent.

The British economy expanded 2.6 percent year-on-year in the three months to June of 2015, unrevised from the preliminary estimate but slowing for the second straight quarter. It is the lowest performance since the last quarter of 2013 as a surge in exports was not able to offset a slowdown in private and public expenditure.

The British economy expanded 0.7 percent on quarter in the three months to June of 2015, higher than a 0.4 percent increase in the previous period and in line with preliminary estimates. It is the tenth consecutive quarter of growth, driven by a surge in business investment and exports.

British inflation rate rose to 0.1 percent in July, beating market expectations and higher than 0 percent in June, driven by cost of housing and utilities and a rebound in clothing and footwear prices. Core inflation hit a five-month high.

The UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £1.6 billion in June 2015, compared with £0.9 billion in May 2015. This reflects a deficit of £9.2 billion on goods, partially offset by an estimated surplus of £7.6 billion on services.

The Monetary Policy Committee, voted by a majority of 8-1 to maintain Bank Rate at 0.5% and unanimously to maintain the stock of purchased assets at £375 billion. The Bank has also raised its growth forecasts for this year and cut its inflation projection.

The British economy expanded 2.6 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2015, in line with market expectations but slowing from a 2.9 percent rise in the previous period. Yet, it is the lowest expansion since the last three months of 2013, due to a slowdown in services and manufacturing, preliminary estimates showed.

The British economy expanded 0.7 percent on quarter in the three months to June 2015, in line with market expectations and boosted by business services and finance and gas and oil production, preliminary estimates showed.

Bank of England policymakers voted unanimously to leave the Bank Rate at a record low 0.5 percent in July but some members showed concerns over upside risks to the inflation, signaling a rate hike may occur sooner than expected, minutes from last MPC meeting showed.

The jobless rate in the UK increased to 5.6 percent in the three months to May 2015 from 5.5 percent in the previous period. It is the first increase since 2013 as employment fell and unemployment went up while wages grew below expectations.

British inflation rate slowed to 0 percent in June from 0.1 percent in May, in line with market expectations as transport and food prices fell further while cost of housing and utilities increased slightly.

The British economy expanded 0.4 percent in the first three months of 2015, better than an initial estimate of 0.3 percent and boosted by household consumption and investment. Still, it is the lowest growth rate since the last quarter of 2013.

The jobless rate in the UK remained unchanged at 5.5 percent in the three months to April 2015, in line with market expectations. Employment continued to rise and wages posted the highest gain since the global financial crisis.

Consumer prices in Britain increased 0.1 percent year-on-year in May of 2015, following a 0.1 percent drop in April, as cost of housing and utilities increased while transport and food cost fell at a slower pace.

British trade gap decreased to £1.2 billion in April from an upwardly revised £3 billion in the previous month. It is the lowest figure since March last year as exports posted the biggest gain in seven months while imports shrank.

The British economy expanded 2.4 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2015, the lowest growth rate since the last quarter of 2013, second estimates released by the Office for National Statistics showed.

The British economy expanded 0.3 percent in the first three months of 2015 matching preliminary estimates but slowing from a 0.6 percent rise in the previous period. Second estimates released by the Office for National Statistics showed a drop in exports and higher imports weighted down on growth.

Bank of England policymakers voted unanimously to leave the Bank Rate at a record low 0.5 percent, minutes from MPC meeting held in May showed. The central bank said the dip in inflation is unlikely to last long but showed concerns over recent house price increase.

Consumer prices in Britain fell 0.1 percent year-on-year in April, compared to no change in March, driven by lower food and fuel cost. This is the first time the CPI has fallen since official records began in 1996 and the first time since 1960 based on comparable historic estimates.

The jobless rate in the UK decreased to 5.5 percent in the three months to March 2015 from 5.6 percent in the previous period. It is the lowest number since May-July 2008 as the employment rate reached the highest since records began in 1971.

British trade gap decreased slightly to £2.8 billion in March from a revised £3.3 billion in the previous month as exports to countries outside the European Union rose and imports of aircraft and ships declined.

The British economy grew 2.4 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2015, the lowest in five quarters, dragged down by a fall in mining and construction and a slowdown in services and manufacturing.

The British economy expanded a weaker-than-expected 0.3 percent on quarter in the first three months of 2015, hurt by a slowdown in business, financial services and manufacturing and decline in mining and construction.

Bank of England policymakers voted unanimously to leave the Bank Rate at a record low 0.5 percent and expected the inflation to become negative in the coming months, minutes from MPC meeting held in April showed.

British jobless rate decreased to 5.6 percent in the three months to February from 5.7 percent in the previous period. Employment increased at its fastest pace in nearly a year while pay growth rose well above inflation.

The British GDP advanced 3 percent year-on-year in the last quarter of 2014, up from a 2.7 percent preliminary estimate as net trade contributed positively to the growth and the services sector continued to power the economy.

British consumer prices were unchanged in the year to February 2015, the level not seen since comparable records started in 1989. The main contributions to the slowdown came from food, fuel, furniture & furnishings and a range of recreational goods.

British trade gap decreased to £616 million in January from a revised £2142 million in the previous month. It is the lowest shortfall since June of 2013 due to a sharp drop in oil imports and higher exports of services.

The British economy advanced 2.7 percent year-on-year in the last quarter of 2014, unchanged from the preliminary estimate. It is the highest growth rate since the last three months of 2007, driven by rise in consumption, investment and net trade.

British jobless rate decreased to 5.7 percent in the three months to December of 2014 from 5.8 percent in the previous period, the lowest since mid-2008. Pay growth rose above inflation for the third straight month.

British annual inflation rate eased to 0.3 percent in January of 2015 from 0.5 percent in the previous month, reaching the lowest on record. Falling prices for motor fuels and food were the main contributors to the slowdown.

Inflation rate is more likely than not to fall below zero, according to latest Inflation Report released by the Bank of England. Policymakers also said they are ready to take whatever action is needed to ensure inflation comes back to target, including cutting rates.

British trade gap increased to £2.9 billion in December of 2014 from a revised £1.8 billion in the previous month, driven by a surge in oil imports. In 2014, the goods deficit was £120 billion, the highest since records began in 1998.

British GDP advanced 0.5 percent on quarter in the last three months of 2014, below market expectations and compared with a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period. Preliminary estimates showed services were the main driver of growth while construction and mining shrank.

Minutes from MPC’s meeting held in January showed policymakers voted unanimously for the first time since July to keep rates at record low as two members dropped their call for higher rates due to low inflation. A rate hike may occur later than expected as policymakers believe there's a roughly even chance of deflation in the first half of 2015.

British trade gap decreased to £1.4 billion in November of 2014 from a revised £2.2 billion in the previous month. It is the lowest shortfall since June of 2013 as lower oil prices reduced the country's imports.

The British economy expanded 0.7 percent on quarter in the three months to September, in line with previous estimates but down from a revised 0.8 percent increase in the previous period. Household and government consumption were the main drivers of growth.

British consumer prices rose 1 percent year-on-year in November, slowing from a 1.3 percent rise in the previous month. It is the lowest rate since September of 2002 due to a fall in motor fuel and food prices.

British trade gap decreased to £ 2.04 billion in October of 2014 from a revised £ 2.8 billion in the previous month. It is the lowest shortfall since March due to a fall in fuel imports and higher silver sales.

The British economy expanded 3 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2014, unrevised from the preliminary estimate. Private consumption was the main contributor to growth while exports shrank for the second consecutive quarter.

The British economy grew 0.7 percent in the three months to September, according to the second estimate released by the statistical office. Private consumption and government spending were the main drivers of expansion while business investment and exports shrank.

British annual inflation rate accelerated slightly to 1.3 percent in October from 1.2 percent in the previous month. While an increase in the cost of alcoholic beverages and tobacco, recreation and culture drove consumer prices higher; cost of food and motor fuels fell.

British jobless rate was unchanged at 6 percent in the three months to September of 2014 but wage growth increased more than expected, surpassing inflation. The claimant count for October fell by 20.4 thousand.

UK’s trade gap increased to £2.84 billion in September of 2014 from a revised £1.77 billion shortfall in August. It is the second highest monthly trade deficit this year, due to a surge in oil imports.

British GDP expanded 3 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2014 compared with a 3.2 percent increase in the previous three months. Yet, preliminary estimates showed the GDP is estimated to have been 3.4 percent higher than the pre-economic downturn peak of the first quarter of 2008.

The UK economy expanded 0.7 percent on quarter in the three months to September, slowing from a 0.9 percent increase in the second quarter. Preliminary estimates showed services were the biggest contributor to the growth while mining and quarrying shrank for the second consecutive quarter and manufacturing posted the lowest gain in six quarters.

The UK jobless rate fell for the seventh straight time to 6 percent in the three months to August of 2014. While the number of unemployment persons posted the largest annual drop on record, employment grew at its slowest pace in more than a year.

At its October meeting, the Bank of England decided to leave the bank rate on hold at 0.5 percent. The stock of purchased assets financed by the issuance of central bank reserves was also left unchanged at £375 billion.

British GDP expanded 3.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2014, unrevised from the second estimate but up from a flash 3.1 percent. Gross fixed capital formation recorded the highest gain in more than eleven years.

The UK economy expanded 0.9 percent in the second quarter of 2014, up 0.1 percentage points from the second estimate, mainly due to changes in the GDP calculating methods. Figures for the first quarter were also revised to a 0.7 percent expansion, from a 0.8 percent increase previously reported.

UK annual inflation rate slowed for the second consecutive month to 1.5 percent in August of 2014 from 1.6 percent in July. Falls in prices of motor fuels and food and non-alcoholic drinks provided the largest downward contributions while the largest, partially offsetting, upward effects came from clothing, transport services and alcohol.

In a speech during the 146th annual Trades Union Congress, the Bank of England Governor Mark Carney signaled the benchmark interest rate may start rising by the spring of 2015, as the economic recovery has exceeded all expectations.

The UK annual inflation rate decelerated to 1.6 percent in July from 1.9 percent in June. Falls in clothing prices contributed the most to the drop while other downward effects came from alcohol, financial services and food.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 0.5% at its meeting on August 7th. The Committee also pledged to keep the stock of purchased assets financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

The UK economy advanced 3.1 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2014, accelerating from a 3 percent expansion in the previous quarter, according to preliminary estimates. It is the highest growth rate since the last three months of 2007.

The UK economy advanced 0.8 percent on quarter in the three months to June, the same growth rate recorded in the previous period, driven by the services sector. Preliminary estimates showed the economy is now 0.2 percent bigger than in the first quarter of 2008, its previous peak.

In the three months to May 2014, the UK’s jobless rate fell to 6.5 percent from 6.6 percent in the previous period, the lowest since late 2008. While employment continued to rise, pay growth increased less than expected.

The UK annual inflation rate accelerated to 1.9 percent in June of 2014 from 1.5 percent in the previous month. It is the highest rate since January this year, driven by a rise in prices of clothing, food and non-alcoholic drinks and air transport.

At its July 10th meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England left the bank rate at 0.5 percent and the stock of purchased assets financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

UK’s trade gap on goods and services increased to £2.42 billion in May of 2014, from a revised £2.05 billion in April. It is the highest shortfall in four months, due to a surge in imports of aircrafts.

The British economy expanded 0.8 percent in the first quarter of 2014, according to final figures and unchanged from the previous estimates, driven by business investment. Year-on-year, the GDP advanced 3 percent, slightly down from a preliminary 3.1 percent estimate.

Minutes of June's monetary policy meeting showed the Bank of England could raise rates before the end of this year. Although slack estimations remain unchanged, policymakers said they were uncertain and found it somewhat surprising that markets attached only a relatively low probability of a Bank Rate increase this year.

The UK annual inflation rate slowed to 1.5 percent in May of 2014 from 1.8 percent in the previous month, due to a fall in food prices and cost for air and sea fares. It is the lowest rate since October of 2009.

On June 12th, during the annual Mansion House speech, Mark Carney said the Bank of England could raise interest rates from a record low earlier than expected as the mounting debt related to the housing market could undermine stability.

UK's trade gap on goods and services increased to £2.5 billion in April 2014, compared with £1.1 billion in March 2014, as exports to countries outside the European Union declined and imports grew slightly.

At its June 5th, 2014 meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England left the bank rate at 0.5 percent and the stock of purchased assets financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

UK GDP advanced 0.8 percent in the first quarter of 2014, unrevised from last month's preliminary estimate. While production, construction and services expanded on the quarter, agriculture shrank by 0.7 percent.

BoE’s Governor Mark Carney said the central bank is in no rush to raise interest rates, suggesting it will wait until next year to tight monetary policy. While the economy has edged closer to the point at which bank rate will need gradually to rise, policymakers consider there is scope to make further inroads into slack before the first increase in Bank Rate is necessary.

In the three months to March 2014, the UK jobless rate decreased to 6.8 percent from 6.9 percent in the previous period. Increases in employment were mainly due to more self-employed people and pay growth rose more than inflation for the first time since 2010.

At its May 8th, 2014 meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the bank rate at 0.5 percent and the stock of purchased assets financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

The UK economy expanded 3.1 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2014, up from a 2.7 percent expansion in the previous quarter. Preliminary estimates showed the economy accelerated for the fifth straight quarter.

UK’s GDP advanced 0.8 percent in the first three months of 2014, marking a fifth straight quarter of economic expansion. While manufacturing and services climbed 1.3 percent and 0.9 percent respectively, agriculture and mining were down.

In the three months to February of 2014, UK jobless rate fell to 6.9 percent, down from 7.2 percent in the previous period. Pay growth rose 1.7 percent and caught up with inflation for the first time in nearly four years.

UK annual consumer prices fell to its lowest in over four year in March of 2014. The inflation rate decelerated for the sixth consecutive month to 1.6 percent, down from 1.7 percent in February, due to lower fuel, clothing and furniture prices.

At its April 10th, 2014 meeting, Bank of England decided to leave the benchmark interest rate on hold at 0.5 percent and the size of its asset purchase programme unchanged at £375 billion, as widely expected.

The UK GDP expanded at its fastest pace in three years in 2013. Final estimates showed the economy advanced 1.7 percent, compared with a meager 0.3 percent expansion in 2012. Between Q4 2012 and Q4 2013, the GDP increased by 2.7 percent, unrevised from the previous estimate.

UK economy advanced 0.7 percent quarter on quarter in the last three months of 2013, in line with previous estimates. Full-year GDP growth in 2013 was revised down to 1.7 percent from 1.8 percent recorded earlier.

In February of 2014, UK’s annual consumer prices eased to 1.7 percent, the lowest rate since October of 2009, dipping further below the Bank of England's target. The biggest downward contribution was transport cost, mainly fuel prices, which showed its biggest drop since September 2009.

In the three months to January of 2014, UK jobless rate remained unchanged at 7.2 percent, after rising to that level in the three months to December of 2013. Claimant count decreased more than expected and average weekly earnings picked up.

UK’s trade deficit increased sharply to £ 2.56 billion in January of 2014, compared with a £ 1.45 billion gap a year earlier and a revised £ 0.66 billion deficit in December of 2013. Exports of goods and services fell to a 14-month low hurt by lower sales of aircraft and chemicals.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee decided on March 6th 2014 to maintain the bank rate on hold at 0.5 percent, as widely expected. The stock of asset purchases was also left unchanged at 375 billion pounds.

UK's GDP rose 0.7 percent on a quarter-on-quarter basis in the last three months of 2013, matching initial estimates and recording its fourth consecutive quarter of growth. Compared with the same quarter of 2012, the GDP expanded 2.7 percent, revised down 0.1 percentage points from the previously estimated 2.8 percent increase.

In the three months to December of 2013, UK’s jobless rate surprisingly rose to 7.2 percent, after falling to 7.1 percent from September to November. In the same period, unemployment fell by 125K to 2.34 million and both youth and long-term unemployment rate declined.

The Bank of England Governor Mark Carney, on February 12th, pledged the Bank would no longer tie its future policy decisions to any particular economic indicator and hinted that interest rates may need to start rising in 2015.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on February 6th to maintain Bank Rate at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of purchased assets financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

Preliminary estimates showed the UK's economy advanced 2.8 percent yoy in the last quarter of 2013, up from 1.9 percent in the previous period. It is the highest growth rate since the first three months of 2008.

In the fourth quarter of 2013, UK's GDP grew 0.7 percent over the previous quarter, boosted by the services sector. Though matching market expectations, preliminary estimates showed the economy slowed in the last three months of 2013 from a 0.8 percent growth rate recorded in the previous two quarters.

UK's jobless rate fell sharply to 7.1 percent in September to November of 2013, beating market expectations. The unemployment rate is down 0.3 percentage points from September to November of 2013 and down 0.6 from a year earlier.

In December of 2013, UK inflation rate decelerated to 2 percent from 2.1 percent in the previous month and reached Bank of England's target level. This is the first time that the CPI has been at or below the target since November of 2009, when the index stood at 1.9 percent. On a monthly basis, prices slowed to 0.4 percent from 0.5 percent in November.

In its January 9th meeting, the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee decided to maintain the stock of asset purchases unchanged at 375 billion pounds, as widely expected. The official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves was also kept at 0.5 percent.

In November, deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.2 billion in November 2013, compared with a deficit of £3.5 billion in October. There was a deficit of £9.4 billion on goods, partly offset by an estimated surplus of £6.2 billion on services.

In the third quarter of 2013, the final reading for the UK quarter-on-quarter GDP growth was confirmed at 0.8 percent. Second quarter growth was revised up to 0.8 percent and the third quarter annual rate was also revised upwards, from 1.5 percent to 1.9 percent.

In the third quarter of 2013, UK’s GDP growth was revised to a final reading of 1.9 percent year-on-on-year, up from an earlier estimate of 1.5 percent. Later data for expenditure, in particular household final consumption expenditure, has led to upward revisions for GDP since Q1 2012. Quarter-on-quarter, GDP growth was confirmed at 0.8 percent.

UK's jobless rate fell to 7.4 percent in August to October of 2013, the lowest rate since March of 2009. The unemployment rate is down 0.3 percentage points from May to July of 2013 and down 0.5 from a year earlier.

In November of 2013, UK's annual inflation rate slowed for the second straight month to 2.1 percent, the lowest rate since November of 2009. The largest contributions to the fall came from food and the utilities (gas and electricity), which were partially offset by upward pressures from the transport sector and from some aspects of recreation and culture.

Seasonally adjusted, the UK's deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £2.6 billion in October 2013, unchanged from the revised September 2013 estimate. Both exports and imports decreased slightly to £41.35 billion and £43.97 billion.

At its December 5th meeting, the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee decided to leave its bond-buying programme unchanged at 375 billion pounds, as widely expected. The official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves was also kept at 0.5 percent.

In the third quarter of 2013, UK’s annual GDP growth rate was confirmed at 1.5 percent, up from 1.3 percent in the previous quarter. Construction and services contributed to the growth rate, almost all industrial sectors contracted over a year earlier.

In Q3, United Kingdom GDP growth accelerated to 0.8 percent quarter-on-quarter, up from 0.7 percent in the previous three-month period and matching the initial estimate. While production in manufacturing, construction and services boosted the expansion, electricity and agriculture shrank.

UK’s jobless rate for July to September 2013 was reported at 7.6 percent of the economically active population, down 0.2 percentage points from April to June 2013 and from a year earlier. It is the lowest rate since March of 2009.

In October, UK’s consumer prices index (CPI) grew by 2.2 percent, down from 2.7 percent in September. The largest contributions to the fall in the rate came from the transport (notably motor fuels) and education (tuition fees) sectors.

In its November 7th meeting, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee decided to leave its benchmark interest rate at a record low of 0.5 percent, as expected. The Committee also decided to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

In Q3, United Kingdom GDP growth accelerated to 0.8 percent quarter-on-quarter, up from 0.6 percent in the second quarter of 2013 and in line with expectations. Output increased in all main industrial groups and at its fastest pace in more than three years.

In the second quarter of 2013, UK’s GDP growth was reported at 1.5 percent on an annual basis, driven by the construction and services sectors. It is the strongest year-on-year GDP growth since first quarter of 2011.

UK's unemployment rate for June to August 2013 was 7.7 percent of the economically active population, unchanged from the previous month and down 0.1 percentage points from March to May 2013. Youth unemployment was unchanged at 21.0 percent.

In September, UK's Consumer Prices Index grew by 2.7 percent year-on-year, unchanged from August. The largest upward contribution came from air fares, though this was offset by a downward contribution from petrol and diesel prices.

In its October 9th meeting, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5 percent. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

In August, UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.3 billion, compared with a deficit of £3.4 billion in July. There was a deficit of £9.6 billion on goods, partly offset by an estimated surplus of £6.3 billion on services.

In Q2, United Kingdom's economy expanded 1.3 percent year-on-year, revised down by 0.2 percentage points. Growth was driven by services output which has increased on an annual basis in every quarter since Q2 2010, whereas production output has been contracting on the same basis in each quarter since Q2 2011.

UK's gross domestic product increased by 0.7 percent between Q1 2013 and Q2 2013, unrevised from the previous estimate. The increase was broad based, with all three major industry groups, services, production and construction making positive contributions.

In August, UK's Consumer Prices Index grew by 2.7 percent year-on-year, down from 2.8 percent in July. The largest contributions to the slowdown came from the transport and clothing sectors, partially offset by an upward contribution from furniture, household equipment and maintenance.

UK unemployment rate for May to July 2013 was 7.7 percent of the economically active population, down 0.1 percentage points from the previous period. Youth unemployment was registered at 21.0 percent in July, down from 21.6 percent in the previous month.

In July, UK's seasonally adjusted deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.1 billion, compared with a gap of £1.3 billion in June. The deficit of £9.9 billion on goods was partly offset by an estimated surplus of £6.8 billion on services.

In its September 5th meeting, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5 percent. The Bank also announced it will reinvest the £1.9 billion of cash flows associated with the redemption of the September 2013 gilt held in the Asset Purchase Facility.

In Q2, UK's GDP in volume terms increased by 1.5 percent when comparing with Q2 of 2012, revised up by 0.1 percentage points from the previously published estimate. Growth was driven by services which increased 2.1 percent.

In Q2, UK's Gross Domestic Product grew by 0.7 percent, an upward revision of 0.1 percentage points from the previous estimate, and following growth of 0.3 percent in Q1 2013. The service sector continued to support growth, rising 0.6 percent and contributing 0.5 percentage points to GDP growth.

UK unemployment rate for April to June 2013 was 7.8 percent of the economically active population, unchanged from January to March 2013. Youth unemployment was registered at 21.6 percent in the same period.

In July, UK's Consumer Prices Index grew by 2.8 percent on the year, down from 2.9 percent in June. While prices of air fares, recreation and culture, and clothing and footwear declined, cost of petrol and diesel increased.

In it August 1st meeting, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5 percent. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

UK GDP grew by 0.6 percent in the second quarter from the previous three months, in line with expectations and double the 0.3 percent expansion in Q1. While services were the biggest contributor to the growth; agriculture, production and construction also expanded during the period.

Recent data updates for U.K. show economy is picking up speed. In the second quarter, GDP growth accelerated to 0.6 percent qoq and 1.4 percent yoy. More importantly, both consumer and business confidence have been on an upward trend and new governor of the Bank of England confirmed that monetary policy will remain loose for some time and new measures will be undertaken to support growth.

UK unemployment rate for March to May 2013 was 7.8 percent, unchanged from the previous period. There were 2.51 million unemployed people, down 57,000 from December 2012 to February 2013. Youth unemployment rose to 20.9 percent.

UK’s seasonally adjusted deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £2.4 billion in May, compared with a deficit of £2.1 billion in April. Volumes of both exports and imports of goods have recovered slightly from the low levels at the beginning of 2013.

In its July meeting, the Bank of England’s MPC voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5% and the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion. Yet, in spite of some signs of economic recovery, the new governor signaled that the Bank will keep interest rates at a record low for longer than investors had expected.

In Q1 of 2013, UK gross domestic product increased 0.3 percent qoq, unrevised from the previous publication. GDP growth between Q4 2011 and Q1 2012 was revised from a fall of 0.1 percent to flat meaning Britain's economy did not suffer a double-dip recession as previously reported. GDP is estimated to be 3.9 percent lower than the pre-financial crisis peak in Q1 of 2008.

In the first quarter of 2013, United Kingdom's year-on-year GDP growth estimate was unexpectedly halved to 0.3 percent. In the previous quarter the economy expanded 0.2 percent. Households' saving ratio was estimated to be 4.2 percent in Q1 of 2013, the weakest since Q1 of 2009 when it was 3.4 percent.

UK jobless rate for February to April 2013 was 7.8 percent of the economically active population, unchanged from November 2012 to January 2013. There were 2.51 million unemployed people, down 5,000 from November 2012 to January 2013. Youth unemployment was recorded at 20.5 percent.

Seasonally adjusted, the UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £2.6 billion in April, compared with a deficit of £3.2 billion in March. The narrowing of the deficit in April is mainly due to the UK's trade in goods with the EU, particularly that it was estimated that imports from the EU fell by around £1.3 billion.

In its June 6th meeting, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5 percent. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

In the first three months of 2013, UK economy finally started to grow. Yet, despite signs of rebound, economic climate remains weak. While feeble wage growth continues to undermine household's finances, uncertain international outlook is limiting business investment.

United Kingdom GDP in volume terms expanded 0.6 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2013, unrevised from the first estimate. This is up from 0.2 percent growth in Q4 of 2012, according to a release by the Office for National Statistics.

The Consumer Prices Index showed that prices grew by 2.4 percent in the year to April 2013 – down from 2.8 percent in the year to March. This is the first time that the growth in inflation has slowed in the last six months, during which time inflation has remained fairly stable.

The unemployment rate was 7.8 percent of the economically active population, up 0.1 percentage points from October to December 2012 but down 0.4 from a year earlier. There were 2.52 million unemployed people, up 15,000 from October to December 2012 but down 92,000 from a year earlier.

Seasonally adjusted, the UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.1 billion in March, compared with a deficit of £3.4 billion in February. There was a deficit of £9.1 billion on goods, partly offset by an estimated surplus of £5.9 billion on services.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

United Kingdom GDP in volume terms expanded 0.6 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2013. This is up from 0.2 percent growth in Q4 of 2012, according to a release by the Office for National Statistics

The number of unemployed people rose by 70,000 between September to November 2012 and December 2012 to February 2013 and there were 2.56 million unemployed people. However there were 71,000 fewer unemployed people compared with a year earlier. The unemployment rate was 7.9% of the economically active population for December 2012 to February 2013. Unemployment is four percentage points lower than the peak of 11.9% seen in the mid-1980s.

The Consumer Prices Index grew by 2.8 percent in the year to March 2013, unchanged from February. CPI remained broadly flat through the second half of 2012 and into 2013 following a number of years of large increases and decreases. Over the last six months, the CPI 12-month rate has been particularly stable, standing at 2.7 percent for four months followed by 2.8 percent for February and March 2013.

According to the Office for National Statistics, UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.6 billion in February, compared with a deficit of £2.5 billion in January. There was a deficit of £9.4 billion on goods, partly offset by an estimated surplus of £5.8 billion on services.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5 percent. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

GDP in volume terms increased by 0.2 percent year-on-year. The growth between the fourth quarter 2011 and the fourth quarter 2012 was revised down by 0.1 percentage points to growth of 0.2 percent. Despite this increase, output remains 2.9 percent lower than its pre-recession peak in the first quarter of 2008.

Recent updates for the United Kingdom are showing that the road to recovery may be bumpy. In the first three months of 2013, the GDP expanded 0.3 percent quarter-on-quarter and 0.6 year-on-year. The rise was driven by the services sector growth and a bounce-back in North Sea oil and gas output.

The number of unemployed people rose by 7,000 comparing November 2012 to January 2013 with the previous period. The unemployment rate was 7.8 percent of the economically active population for November 2012 to January 2013. This was unchanged from August to October 2012 but down 0.5 percentage points from a year earlier.

The headline rate of inflation rose to 2.8 percent following four consecutive months when it stood at 2.7 percent. The Consumer Prices Index showed that prices grew by 2.8 percent in the year to February 2013. Although up on the 2.7 percent recorded in each of October 2012 to January 2013, this continues the trend of, broadly, consistent inflation that has been seen since spring 2012.

Seasonally adjusted, the UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £2.4 billion in January, compared with a deficit of £2.8 billion in December. Lowest value of goods imports since April 2011.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted in March to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5 percent. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

The unemployment rate was 7.8 percent of the economically active population, down 0.1 percentage points on July to September 2012 and down 0.6 on a year earlier. There were 2.50 million unemployed people, down 14,000 on July to September 2012 and down 156,000 on a year earlier.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee today voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £375 billion.

Seasonally adjusted, the UK’s deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £3.2 billion in December, compared with a deficit of £3.6 billion in November. However, despite erratic changes in the deficit over the last 12 months, the level across that period has remained largely flat.

GDP was estimated to have decreased by 0.3 percent in Q4 2012 compared with Q3 2012 and to have been flat in Q4 2012, when compared with Q4 2011.
GDP is estimated to have been flat between 2011 and 2012.

The unemployment rate for September to November 2012 was 7.7% of the economically active population, down 0.1 from June to August 2012. There were 2.49 million unemployed people, down 37 000 from June to August 2012.

The UK economy grew by 0.9 per cent in the third quarter of 2012, following three consecutive quarters of negative growth. Despite being revised down by 0.1 percentage points from the previous estimate, the latest quarterly growth rate remains the strongest since the third quarter of 2007.

The employment rate for those aged from 16 to 64 was 71.2 per cent, up 0.1 on the quarter and up 0.9 on a year earlier. There were 29.60 million people in employment aged 16 and over, up 499,000 on the quarter.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee today voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £375 million, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee on September 6th voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £375 billion, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on August 2nd, to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £375 billion, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

U.K. Gross Domestic Product decreased by 0.7 per cent in the second quarter of 2012. The most significant contribution to this fall came from the construction sector; there was, however, also weakness in both the production and services sectors.

U.K. CPI annual inflation stands at 2.4 per cent in June 2012, down from 2.8 per cent in May. This is the third month in a row that the annual rate has fallen. It is now at its lowest since November 2009, when it was 1.9 per cent.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on July 5th to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to increase the size of its asset purchase programme, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, by £50 billion to a total of £375 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on May 10th to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £325 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on April 5th, to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £325 billion financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

UK gross domestic product (GDP) in volume terms decreased by 0.3 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011, revised from a decline of 0.2 per cent previously estimated. For the year 2011, GDP in volume terms increased by 0.7 per cent.

UK annual inflation stands at 3.4 per cent in February 2012, down from 3.6 per cent in January. The annual rate for February is the lowest since November 2010. The CPI stands at 121.8 in February 2012 based on 2005 = 100

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on March 8th to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £325 billion financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

U.K. unemployment rate was 8.4 per cent of the economically active population, up 0.1 on the quarter. There were 2.67 million unemployed people, up 48,000 on the quarter. The unemployment rate has not been higher since 1995.

The UK’s deficit in Trade in Goods and Services decreased to £1.1 billion in December, from £2.8 billion in November. This is the narrowest monthly trade in goods and services deficit since April 2003.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on February 9th to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to increase the size of its asset purchase programme, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, by £50 billion to a total of £325 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on January 12t to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £275 billion financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

The UK economy bounced back between July and September with stronger than expected growth of 0.6% after it ground to a halt in the second quarter, the Office for National Statistics said on December 22.

The UK’s deficit in Trade in Goods and Services decreased to £1.6 billion in October, down from £4.3 billion in September. This is the smallest deficit since April 2011, when the deficit was £1.5 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on December 8th to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totalling £275 billion financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on November 11, to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to continue with its programme of asset purchases totaling £275 billion financed by the issuance of central bank reserves.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on October 2011 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to increase the size of its asset purchase programme, financed by the issuance of central bank reserves, by £75 billion to a total of £275 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on September 8 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

U.K. inflation rate accelerated to 4.4% in July from 4.2% in June, forcing Bank of England Governor Mervyn King to write the third letter this year explaining why the rate is above the bank's target over the last three months.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee decided on August 4 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

U.K. unemployment rate for the three months to April 2011 was 7.7 per cent of the economically active population, down 0.3 on the quarter. The total number of unemployed people fell by 88,000 over the quarter to reach 2.43 million. This is the largest quarterly fall in unemployment since the three months to August 2000.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on June 9 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on May 5 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

UK unemployment rate for the three months to February 2011 was 7.8 per cent of the economically active population, down 0.1 on the quarter. The total number of unemployed people fell by 17,000 over the quarter to reach 2.48 millio

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on April 7 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

UK GDP growth contracted by 0.5 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2010, revised from a fall of 0.6 per cent previously published. GDP in the fourth quarter of 2010 is now 1.5 per cent higher than the fourth quarter of 2009.

UK unemployment rate for the three months to January 2011 was 8.0 per cent of the economically active population, up 0.1 on the quarter. The total number of unemployed people increased by 27,000 over the quarter to reach 2.53 million, the highest figure since 1994.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on March 10 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

UK Gross domestic product contracted by 0.6 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2010, revised down from the previously estimated fall of 0.5 per cent. GDP in the fourth quarter of 2010 is now 1.5 per cent higher than the fourth quarter of 2009.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on February 10 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted on January 12 to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5%. The Committee also voted to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £200 billion.

UK gross domestic product (GDP) in volume terms rose by 0.7 per cent compared with the previous quarter, revised down from the 0.8 per cent rise published in November. GDP in volume terms fell by 4.9 per cent during 2009, revised up from the 5.0 per cent fall previously published.

The U.K. trade deficit narrowed slightly in September as exports rose by more than imports, in a tentative sign that sterling's weakness may finally be starting to boost demand for U.K.-produced goods.

The Bank of England’s monetary policy committee voted on November 4 to maintain its key rate at the 0.5 per cent level and to keep its £200bn programme of quantitative easing through gilt purchases on hold.

The Bank of England kept its bond- stimulus plan in place and left its benchmark interest rate at a record low as officials sustained emergency aid for the economy during the biggest budget squeeze since World War II.

The Bank of England kept its bond- stimulus plan in place and left its benchmark interest rate at a record low to help prevent the economic recovery from stalling during the biggest budget squeeze since World War II.

The Bank of England kept its bond- stimulus program in place and left its benchmark interest rate at a record low to aid the economy as Prime Minister David Cameron prepares the biggest budget cuts since at least the early 1980s.

This week, UK GDP growth for the first quarter of 2010 was revised up to 0.3%. And although this number may look encouraging it is very unlikely that this year British economy will record any significant recovery.

The U.K. economy grew half as much as forecast in the first quarter, underscoring the fragility of the recovery as Prime Minister Gordon Brown struggles to convince voters that his party deserves a fourth term.

The Bank of England kept its bond- purchase program on hold for a second month as policy makers assessed whether the 200 billion pounds ($302 billion) spent so far is enough to prevent a relapse in the economy.

U.K. jobless claims unexpectedly jumped in January to the highest level since Tony Blair led the ruling Labour Party to power almost 13 years ago as the recession destroyed work at businesses from carmakers to banks.

U.K. inflation accelerated in January to the fastest pace in 14 months as an increase in sales tax pushed the rate high enough to prompt a public letter of explanation from Bank of England Governor Mervyn King.

In the fourth quarter of 2009, the United Kingdom economy expanded 0.1% qoq, finally emerging from the longest and deepest recession since the mid-1940s. Yet, the recent wave of optimism may be way exaggerated since recent growth is mainly supported by fiscal and monetary stimulus.

The U.K. economy shrank less than previously estimated in the third quarter as consumer spending stopped falling and the service industries slump eased, bringing the longest recession on record closer to an end.

In the third quarter of 2009, the British economy contracted 0.4% indicating the deepest and longest recession since the World War II. Yet, as gloomy the situation is, the UK government has some options left to revive growth.

Strong external growth, better demand for housing and a drop in the pace of destocking indicate the recession in the United Kingdom may be coming to an end. Yet, at Trading Economics, we think that improvement in economic indicators doesn’t necessary mean the UK economy is out of the woods.

The Bank of England plans to keep buying as much as 175 billion pounds ($290 bn) of assets to cement the economy’s recovery from the worst recession in a generation. The central bank also kept the benchmark interest rate at 0.5%.

The U.K. trade deficit was unchanged in July on the month earlier but exports and imports both recorded their largest increases since January 2008 in the latest sign that the global economy is improving.

Last month, the Bank of England decided to extend its quantitative easing monetary policy, increasing its size by £50bn to £175bn. However, with the British economy improving it is unlikely that this week the Governors vote to expand QE further. And although it is too early to make a full assessment of QE’s effectiveness at Trading Economics we think that its impact on the economy may be very limited.

The U.K. economy contracted less than previously estimated in the second quarter as manufacturing, auto services and government spending helped mitigate the biggest slump in business investment in 24 years.

Last week, the Bank of England has decided to extend its quantitative easing monetary policy, increasing its size by £50bn to £175bn. And although it is too early to make a full assessment of QE’s effectiveness at Trading Economics we think that its impact on the economy may be very limited.

After five months of quantitative easing policy in the United Kingdom, it is likely the measure will be halted in the next few weeks. And although it is too early to make a full assessment of QE’s effectiveness, at Trading Economics we think that it could have had a better impact on the economy.

In the first quarter of 2009, the United Kingdom GDP felt by 4.9 per cent year-over-year, the steepest decline in record. Recently, the International Monetary Fund has raised its 2010 economic growth forecast for Britain. However, the United Kingdom still has a long way before it can achieve a sustainable recovery.

In the first quarter of 2009, the United Kingdom GDP felt by 1.9 per cent quarter on quarter, the steepest quarterly decline in 30 years. What’s next for the British economy? Has the British authorities used all available measures to boost the economy?

The number of people out of work in the UK rose 244,000 to 2.22 million in the first three months of 2009, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. The jobless rate rose from 6.7% to 7.1%. Unemployment benefit claimants in April rose 57,100 to 1.51 million.

The Bank of England voted to hold rates steady at half a percentage point on Thursday and said it would expand its £75bn quantitative easing programme as it cited concerns about the fragility of the world’s banking system.

The Bank of England looks set to leave interest rates at a record low on Thursday and may give little away about the future of its asset purchase scheme ahead of new growth and inflation forecasts next week.

In the first quarter of 2009, the United Kingdom GDP felt by 1.9 per cent quarter on quarter, the steepest quarterly decline in 30 years. What’s next for the British economy? Has the British authorities used all available measures to boost the economy?

The Bank of England’s monetary policy committee agreed on Thursday to hold interest rates steady for the first time since last September and maintained its commitment to buy up to £150bn in gilts and corporate bonds.

This week, the United Kingdom government bond auction failed for the first time in seven years. What is behind investors’ reluctance to buy bonds and what impact may it have on the Bank of England monetary policy?

UK inflation defied expectations to rise in February for the first time in five months, triggering another exchange of letters between Mervyn King, governor of the Bank of England, and Alistair Darling, chancellor.

In the last quarter of the 2008, the U.K. gross domestic product fell 1.5 percent from the previous quarter, the most since 1980. What is behind this unprecedented slump? Can interest rates reductions and a weak sterling bring relief to the deteriorating British economy?

The United Kingdom economy contracted the most since 1980 in the fourth quarter of 2008 as the financial crisis ceased consumer spending and companies stop investing. Has the Bank of England used all available measures to boost the credit? What else can be done to stop the downturn spiral?

UK inflation fell in December by the most for more than sixteen years as the cut in VAT came into effect and stores slashed prices in an attempt to attract customers, official data out on Tuesday showed.

On January 8th the Bank of England cut its benchmark rate to 1.5%, the lowest level since the central bank was founded in 1694. For some, this was an admission of defeat. For others, this was a desperate step to help the sinking British economy.

Inflation fell sharply last month on the back of falling petrol prices but it remains far above the government’s target, forcing Mervyn King, governor of the Bank of England, to write another letter on Tuesday explaining why inflation remains so high and what the Bank is doing to bring it down.

Signs that the economic downturn is gathering pace prompted the Bank of England’s monetary policy committee to cut interest rates on Thursday by a full percentage point to 2 per cent, the lowest level for more nearly four decades.

The U.K. inflation rate fell more than economists forecast in October, recording the steepest drop in at least 11 years and giving the Bank of England scope to cut interest rates further as the economy slides into a recession.

The Bank of England unexpectedly cut the benchmark interest rate by 1.5 percentage points to the lowest since 1955 as policy makers tried to limit damage caused by the worst banking crisis in almost a century.

The United Kingdom economy is in the early stage of a severe recession according to the most recent economic data. But will the recently announced £500bn bank bailout package and drastic interest rates cuts bring relief to a rapid deteriorating economy?

U.K. unemployment rose to the highest level in almost two years in September as the prospect of a recession and the global financial crisis prompted a spate of job cuts from banks to construction companies.

U.K. stocks slumped, sending the benchmark FTSE 100 Index below 5,000 for the first time since June 2005, as concern grew there may be further capital raisings at financial companies and commodity stocks fell with metals prices.

The pound dropped to a record low against the euro on Monday after Alistair Darling, the UK’s finance minister, said conditions in the country’s economy were as bad as they had been for more than half a century.

The pound fell to the lowest level in more than four months against the euro after a report showed consumer confidence held near a record low in August, strengthening the case for lower interest rates.

The pound fell to near a two-year low against the dollar and slipped versus the euro after BoE policy maker Tim Besley said inflation will fall by the end of next year, adding to the case for interest-rate cuts.

The pound dropped against the euro and traded near a two-year low versus the dollar after U.K. house prices posted their biggest annual decline in August since at least 2002, strengthening the case for lower interest rates.

The U.K. pound fell to a 22-month low against the dollar and government bonds advanced after the Bank of England cut its growth forecast and held out the prospect of lower interest rates as unemployment rose the most in almost 16 years.

The pound dropped to a 17-month low against the dollar on concern the economy is edging toward a recession as U.K. banks repossessed the most homes in 12 years in the first half and house prices lost two years of gains.

The Bank of England’s monetary policy committee left interest rates unchanged at 5 per cent for the fifth consecutive month on Thursday, after evidence of a weakening economy left it little scope to toughen its stance against rising inflation.

After 16 years of uninterrupted growth the outlook for the United Kingdom economy is deteriorating day by day. Indeed, businesses surveys have fallen sharply and in most cases are close to record lows. How is it possible that the fifth-largest economy in the world is on the brink of recession?

The U.K. pound rose to a 3 1/2-month high against the dollar as inflation accelerated to the highest level in more than a decade, while government bonds gained as sliding equities lured investors to the safest assets.

Consumer price inflation shot up even faster than expected last month, official data showed on Tuesday, with jumps in the cost of food and petrol taking the annual rate to nearly double the Bank of England’s target and leaving little prospect of near term cuts in interest rates.

The pound slid against the dollar and the euro and bonds rose after a government report showed U.K. manufacturing contracted more than predicted in May, deepening concern the economy will tip into a recession.

The pound fell for a second day against the dollar as minutes from this month's Bank of England policy meeting showed members decided an interest-rate increase wasn't ``urgently'' required to keep inflation contained.

The U.K. pound dropped the most in two weeks against the euro as traders pared bets that the Bank of England will increase interest rates on speculation worsening inflation will stifle economic growth.

Mervyn King, the BoE's governor, has been forced to exchange letters with the chancellor on Tuesday explaining how he plans to restore price stability, after official data showed UK consumer price inflation rose to 3.3 per cent in May.

The pound snapped a three-day gain against the dollar as an industry report showed a squeeze on mortgage lending kept U.K. house price declines close to the most widespread level in at least three decades.

Gains for resource stocks struggled to pull London’s FTSE 100 index higher on Monday afternoon, with the index flitting between positive and negative territory after a difficult morning hampered by fears of slowing growth and rising inflation.

The Bank of England’s monetary policy committee left interest rates unchanged at 5 per cent as expected on Thursday, with its room for manoeuvre severely limited by intense inflationary pressures and bleak prospects for economic growth.

The British pound fell against the dollar and euro after news reports said Bradford & Bingley Plc, the U.K.'s biggest mortgage lender to landlords, needs to raise money from shareholders and profit will be lower than expected.

The UK economy grew at its weakest pace in three years in the first quarter of 2008, thanks to a sharp drop in investment that offset surprisingly strong growth in household consumption, official data showed on Friday.

The pound rebounded from a two-week low against the euro and climbed versus the dollar after a surge in U.K. producer prices prompted traders to pare bets the Bank of England will cut interest rates next month.

The pound fell to a 2 1/2-month low against the dollar after an industry report showed U.K. consumer confidence declined to the weakest in at least four years last month, strengthening the case for a cut in interest rates.

The pound fell by the most in more than a week against the dollar after an official report showed mortgage approvals dropped in March to the lowest level in at least nine years, prompting traders to increase bets on further interest- rate cuts.

The UK economy slowed as expected in the first three months of 2008, registering the weakest quarter of growth since the start of 2005 as energy extraction fell and the service sector lost momentum, official data showed on Friday.

This year can be crucial for the British economy since it may bring a significant reduction on its economic growth. Slowing housing market and tighter financial conditions could be at the heart of the slowdown.

The pound rose the most against the euro in two months, paring a weekly decline, after a government report showed sales at U.K. stores unexpectedly grew last month, and as investors judged yesterday's drop was exaggerated.

A sharp weakening in domestic demand led economic growth to slow at the end of last year, despite higher government spending and the biggest rise in inventories for 20 years, official data showed on Wednesday.

Interest rates are unlikely to fall as much as markets expect to stem an economic slowdown, the Bank of England signalled on Wednesday in a hawkish inflation report, warning of “substantial challenges for policy” in the year ahead.

Consumer price inflation rose less than expected in January, but edged farther above the Bank of England’s 2 per cent target as higher food and petrol prices took effect, official data showed on Tuesday.

The pound fell against the euro and declined to within a quarter of a cent of a three-week low versus the dollar before a government report that may show U.K. house prices grew at the slowest pace in 1 1/2 years in December.

The pound rose the most against the dollar in a month and rebounded from a record low versus the euro as inflation unexpectedly held above the Bank of England's 2 percent target for a third month, reducing pressure on policy makers to cut interest rates.

UK inflation held steady at 2.1 per cent in November despite fears it would be fuelled by rising food and fuel prices, giving the Bank of England more leeway to cut interest rates if the economy slows rapidly at the start of next year.

The U.K. trade deficit narrowed in October as exports increased, a sign the strength of global economic growth and the pound's drop against the euro is helping British companies sell their products overseas.

The Bank of England cut interest rates from 5.75 per cent to 5.5 per cent on Thursday as its monetary policy committee judged that worsening conditions in financial markets and a tightening supply of credit had increased the risks to growth and inflation.

The economy did not grow quite as quickly in the third quarter as previously thought, the Office for National Statistics said on Friday, as separate figures showed banks pulling back from lending to households in October.

U.K. inflation rate surprisingly rose in October above the Bank of England's 2 percent target to a four-month high, suggesting higher interest rates have yet to press price pressures out of the economy.

Interest rates were left on hold at 5.75 per cent on Thursday as the majority of members on the Bank of England’s monetary policy committee decided the risks of a sharp economic slowdown and falling inflation were not serious enough to warrant an interest rate cut.

The Bank of England kept its key interest rate unchanged today as policy makers assess the effect on the economy of higher corporate borrowing costs and a run on lender Northern Rock Plc, a survey of economists shows.

The Bank of England kept official interest rates steady for a second month running on Thursday, and said it was keeping a close eye on market developments to see how they would affect companies and consumers.

The British pound could fall further as investors lower expectations the Bank of England will raise interest rates again this year. The implied yield on the December interest-rate futures contract has fallen 10 basis points to 6.15 percent in the past two weeks.

King, John Gieve, Timothy Besley and Andrew Sentance argued for a quarter-point move to 5.75 percent to cool the economy and quell inflation, minutes of the June 6-7 meeting published by the central bank in London showed.

The unemployment rate was 5.5 per cent, unchanged on the quarter but up 0.3 over the year. The number of unemployed people rose by 13,000 over the quarter and by 101,000 over the year, to reach 1.70 million.

Regular pay growth remained subdued, though oil prices rebounded. The margin of spare capacity in firms appears to be relatively limited and businesses seem to have become more confident in their ability to raise prices.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee today voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 5.5%. The previous change in Bank Rate was an increase of 0.25 percentage points to 5.5% on 10 May 2007.

The Bank of Thailand voted by 5 to two raised the policy rate by 25 bps to 1.75 percent for first time since March of 2015, amid a slowdown in exports and tourism, as widely expected. The Committee said that the policy increase would help curb accumulation of vulnerabilities in the financial system in conjuction with the macro-prudential measures already implemented. For 2018, the Bank revises its economic growth forecast to 4.2 percent from 4.4 percent with exports seen up 3.7 percent, 4.7 percent of private consumption, 3.6 percent of private investment, and 4.6 percent of public investment.

Malaysia's consumer price inflation slowed to 0.2 percent year-on-year in November of 2018 from 0.6 percent in the previous month and far below market expectations of 0.6 percent. It was the lowest inflation rate since August, due to a softer rise in cost of both food and housing and a slump in prices of transport. On a monthly basis, consumer prices went up 0.2 percent, the same pace as in the preceding month and marking the fifth straight monthly increase.

Japan trade balance shifted to a deficit of JPY 737.3 billion in November 2018 from a surplus of JPY 105.2 billion in the same month a year earlier and worse than market estimates of a gap of JPY 450 billion. Imports jumped 12.5 percent year-on-year while exports edged up 0.1 percent.

Housing starts in the United States jumped 3.2 percent from a month earlier to an annualized rate of 1,256 thousand in November of 2018, beating market forecasts of a 0.2 percent drop. Starts went up in the Northeast and the South but slumped in the Midwest and the West. The multi-family segment soared while single-family homebuilding reached the lowest level since May 2017.

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Hong Kong stood at 2.8 percent in the three months to November of 2018, remaining the lowest jobless rate since January of 1998. The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.2 percent, the same as in the August-October period.

The Euro Area narrowed to EUR 14.0 billion in October 2018 from EUR 17.8 billion in the same month a year earlier. Exports rose 11.4 percent year-on-year while imports increased at a faster 14.8 percent.

Annual inflation rate in the Euro Area was revised lower to 1.9 percent in November of 2018 from a preliminary of 2 percent and 2.2 percent in October. It is the lowest inflation rate in six months amid a broad-based price slowdown, final figures showed.

Italy's trade surplus decreased to EUR 3.78 billion in October 2018 from EUR 4.91 billion in the same month of the previous year, but well above market expectations of EUR 1.89 billion. Imports advanced faster than exports.

Indonesia posted a trade deficit USD 2.05 billion in November 2018, swinging from a USD 0.2 billion surplus in the same month a year earlier, beating market consensus of a USD 0.83 billion gap. It was the second straight month trade gap and the largest since July 2013, as exports dropped while imports increased.

The IHS Markit US Manufacturing PMI fell to 53.9 in December of 2018 from 55.3 in November, below market expectations of 55.1. The reading pointed to the slowest expansion in factory activity since November of 2017, as new orders and employment rose at a slower pace, preliminary estimates showed. Also, the near-term outlook has become less favourable.

US industrial output rose 0.6 percent from a month earlier in November 2018, following a downwardly revised 0.2 percent contraction in October and beating market expectations of a 0.3 percent gain. Mining and utilities output led the increase while manufacturing production was unchanged.

US retail trade rose by 0.2 percent from a month earlier in November 2018, following an upwardly revised 1.1 percent growth in October and matching market expectations. An increase in sales of furniture, electronics and a range of other goods was partially offset by a decline in trade at gasoline stations on the back of cheaper fuel prices.

Ireland’s trade surplus rose to EUR 4.26 billion in October of 2018 from EUR 2.83 billion in the same month of the previous year. Exports jumped 33 percent from a year earlier to an all-time high of EUR 12.85 billion while imports advanced at a softer 26 percent to EUR 8.59 billion.

The Bank of Russia raised unexpectedly its benchmark one-week repo rate by 25 bps to 7.75 percent on December 14th, saying the decision is aimed at limiting inflation risks that remain elevated, especially over the short-term horizon on the back of the upcoming VAT rate increase. Policymakers expect annual inflation to be 5-5.5 percent by the end of 2019, before returning to 4 percent in 2020.

The annual inflation rate in Italy came in at 1.6 percent in November of 2018, the same as in the previous month and slightly lower than a preliminary estimate of 1.7 percent. Inflation was steady for furniture and household equipment; housing & utilities and clothing & footwear. In addition, a slowdown in cost of non-regulated energy products offset rising prices of food.

The annual inflation rate in Nigeria rose to 11.28 percent in November of 2018 from 11.26 percent in the previous month. Prices advanced faster mainly due to higher cost of food and housing and utilities.

Wholesale prices in India rose by 4.64 percent year-on-year in November 2018, slowing from a 5.28 percent gain in the prior month and slightly below than market estimates of 4.7 percent. It was the lowest wholesale inflation since August, as cost increased at a softer pace for fuel and manufactured products while prices of food declined further.

The US government budget deficit went up to USD 205 billion in November 2018 from USD 139 billion in the same month of the previous year, above market expectations of USD 188 billion. It is the widest budget gap on record for a November month, as spending surged 18.4 percent to USD 411 billion while revenues fell 1.2 percent to USD 206 billion.

The number of Americans filling for unemployment benefits decreased by 27 thousand to a near 49-year low of 206 thousand in the week ending December 8 from the previous week's revised level of 233 thousand. Claims declined for the second straight week and by the most since April 2015. It compares with market expectations of a decline to 225 thousand.

The European Central Bank held its benchmark refinancing rate at 0 percent on December 13th and confirmed the end of its €2.6 trillion bond purchase scheme later this month, while it will keep reinvesting cash from maturing bonds for an extended period of time. Policymakers also reiterated they expect key interest rates to remain at record low levels at least through the summer of 2019.

Irish annual inflation rate dropped to 0.6 percent in November 2018 from 0.9 percent in the previous month. It is the lowest inflation rate since June, as prices slowed mostly for housing & utilities and transport.

The Irish economy expanded by 0.9 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2018, slowing from a downwardly revised 2.1 percent growth in the previous period. Personal consumption and government spending advanced at a softer pace and net trade contributed negatively to the GDP growth, as imports rose faster than exports.

The Central Bank of Turkey held its one week repo auction rate at 24 percent on December 13th as widely expected, following a bigger-than-expected decline in November inflation. Policymakers also said that the tight monetary policy stance will be maintained until inflation outlook displays a significant improvement.

The Swiss National Bank held its benchmark interest rate at -0.75 percent on December 13th, as widely expected, saying the franc is still highly valued and the situation on the foreign exchange market continues to be fragile while GDP growth is likely to weaken somewhat in 2019 amid global political uncertainties and protectionist tendencies.

France's inflation rate stood at 1.9 percent in November 2018, unrevised from the preliminary estimate and below October's final reading of 2.2 percent. It was the lowest inflation rate since April, as prices of services, energy, food and tobacco rose at a softer pace.

Germany's annual inflation rate slowed to 2.3 percent in October 2018 from a ten year high of 2.5 percent in the previous month and in line with the preliminary estimates. Services and food inflation eased while energy inflation pick up.

Singapore’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate inched higher to 2.1 percent in the third quarter of 2018 from a two-year low of 2 percent in the previous quarter and in line with the preliminary estimate. It was the highest jobless rate since the last quarter of 2017, reflecting a continued inflow of job seekers into the labor market.

The Central Bank of Brazil voted unanimously to hold its key Selic rate at 6.50 percent on 12 December 2018 as widely expected, keeping borrowing costs at the lowest level in modern history amid target inflation and lackluster GDP growth. It was the second monetary policy meeting after the presidential election.

Annual inflation rate in the US fell to 2.2 percent in November of 2018 from 2.5 percent in October, matching market expectations. It is the lowest reading since February. On a monthly basis, consumer prices were unchanged after rising 0.3 percent in October and also in line with forecasts. The gasoline index declined 4.2 percent, offsetting increases in an array of indexes including shelter and used cars and trucks.

Russia's gross domestic product grew by 1.5 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, up from a preliminary estimate of 1.3 percent and following a 1.9 percent expansion reported in the previous three-month period.

The annual inflation rate in Ghana fell to 9.3 percent in November 2018 from 9.5 percent in the previous month. It remained the lowest inflation since December 2012, as cost of food and non-food slowed.

Annual consumer inflation in India declined to 2.33 percent in November of 2018 from an upwardly revised 3.38 percent in October and below market expectations of 2.8 percent. It is the lowest inflation rate since June of 2017 as food prices fell the most since the series began in 2012. The Reserve Bank of India revised down its inflation forecasts to 2.7 percent-3.2 percent for the period Oct 2018-March 2019, amid lower food and fuel prices.

The annual inflation rate in Portugal decreased to 0.9 percent in November of 2018 from 1 percent in the previous month and in line with preliminary estimates. It is the lowest inflation rate since April, mainly due to lower transport prices.

Industrial output in the Euro Area rose 1.2 percent from a year earlier in October 2018, following a downwardly revised 0.8 percent growth in the previous month and easily beating market consensus of a 0.7 percent increase.

The annual inflation rate in South Africa rose to 5.2 percent in November of 2018 from 5.1 percent in the previous month while markets had expected it to remain steady at 5.1 percent. It is the highest inflation rate since May 2017, as prices continued to climb mainly for transport.

The unemployment rate in the UK stood at 4.1 percent in the three months to October 2018, remaining close to its lowest level since the 1970s and matching market expectations. The number of unemployed rose by 20,000 from the May to July period while employment increased by 79,000 and the number of job vacancies were near an all-time high. Average weekly earnings including bonuses rose 3.3 percent on the year, their biggest rise since the three months to July 2008; excluding bonuses, wages also grew 3.3 percent, the most since the end of 2008.

The Philippine's trade deficit widened sharply to USD 4.21 billion in October of 2018 from USD 2.59 billion in the same month a year earlier. It was the largest trade gap on record, as import rose much more than exports.

The annual inflation rate in Tanzania fell to 3.0 percent in November of 2018 from 3.2 percent in the previous month. It remained the lowest inflation rate on record, mainly due to a slowdown in cost of food and non-alcoholic beverages.

The Turkish economy grew by 1.6 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, slowing from an upwardly revised 5.3 percent expansion in the previous three-month period and below market expectations of 2 percent. This was the weakest growth rate since a contraction in the third quarter of 2016, as household consumption and government spending increased at a softer pace while investment fell. On the other hand, net external demand contributed positively to the expansion as a weak lira boosted exports.

The economy of Nigeria grew 1.8 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, up from a 1.5 percent expansion in the prior period, as non-oil rose faster and oil sector shrank less. On a quarterly basis, the economy advanced 9.5 percent, higher than a 2.9 percent growth in the previous quarter.

The Japanese economy shrank 0.6 percent on quarter in the third quarter of 2018, faster than a preliminary estimate of a 0.3 percent drop and market expectations of a 0.5 percent decline. It is the steepest contraction since the second quarter of 2014, following a downwardly revised 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period. Natural disasters like flood and earthquake weighed more on personal consumption and capital investment than initially estimated.

China's consumer price inflation slowed to 4-month low of 2.2 percent year-on-year in November 2018 from 2.5 percent in the previous month and below market consensus of 2.4 percent. Food inflation hit its lowest in three months and cost of non-food increased the least in seven months.

China's trade surplus widened to USD 44.74 billion in November of 2018 from USD 38.43 billion in the same month a year earlier and easily beating market consensus of USD 34 billion. It was the largest trade surplus since December 2017, as exports rose at a faster 5.4 percent year-on-year while imports went up by 3.0 percent.

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment for the US was steady at 97.5 in December of 2018, the same as in the previous month and above market expectations of 97, preliminary estimates showed. In the last 2 years, consumer sentiment has been above 90, a pattern not seen since 1997 to 2000.

The annual inflation rate in Mexico decreased to 4.72 percent in November 2018 from 4.90 percent in the previous month but above market expectations of 4.63 percent. It is the lowest inflation rate since June, amid slowing prices of energy and food, beverages & tobacco.

The unemployment rate in Canada decreased to 5.6 percent in November of 2018 from 5.8 percent in the previous month while markets had expected it to remain steady at 5.8 percent. It is the lowest jobless rate since comparable data became available in 1976. The economy added 94.1 thousand jobs in November, after creating 11.2 thousand in October and compared with market consensus of 11 thousand. Full-time hiring grew (+89.9 thousand) and part-time jobs increased (+4.1 thousand).

The US unemployment rate was unchanged at a 49-year low of 3.7 percent in November 2018, in line with market expectations. The number of unemployed decreased by 100 thousand to 5.98 million and employment rose by 233 thousand to 156.80 million.

Non farm payrolls in the United States increased by 155 thousand in November of 2018, following a downwardly revised 237 thousand in October and well below market expectations of 200 thousand. Job gains occurred in health care, in manufacturing, and in transportation and warehousing.

Annual inflation rate in Brazil eased to 4.05 percent in November of 2018 from 4.56 percent in October and below market expectations of 4.19 percent. It is the lowest inflation rate in six months, due to slowing prices for electricity and fuels. So far this year, inflation was 3.59 percent, above 2.5 percent in the same period of 2017.

The Eurozone economy grew 0.2 percent on quarter in the three months to September 2018, unrevised from a second estimate and following a 0.4 percent expansion in the previous period. It was the weakest growth rate since the second quarter of 2014 mainly due to a negative contribution from external demand.

The French trade deficit decreased to EUR 4.1 billion in October 2018 from a downwardly revised EUR 5.4 billion in the previous month and below market consensus of a EUR 6.0 billion gap. Exports jumped 6.2 percent to an all-time high and imports climbed at a softer 2.5 percent, also reaching a record.

The ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI index for the United States edged up to 60.7 in November of 2018 from 60.3 in October, beating market expectations of 59.2. The non-manufacturing sector continued to reflect strong growth in November although concerns persist about employment resources and the impact of tariffs. Yet, respondents remain positive about current business conditions and the direction of the economy.

The U.S. trade deficit widened to USD 55.5 billion in October of 2018 from an upwardly revised USD 54.6 billion in the previous month and compared with market expectations of a USD 54.9 billion gap. It is the highest deficit since October of 2008 as lower soybean sales weighed down on exports and imports reached a new record high.

The number of Americans filling for unemployment benefits decreased by 4 thousand to 231 thousand in the week ending December 1 from the previous week's revised level of 235 thousand. It compares with market expectations of a decline to 225 thousand.

Russia’s annual inflation rate rose to 3.8 percent in November 2018 from 3.5 percent in the previous month, still below market expectations of 3.9 percent. It was the highest inflation rate since July 2017 on the back of rising prices of food and non-food products while service inflation eased.

Australia's trade surplus narrowed to AUD 2.32 billion in October 2018 from a marginally revised AUD 2.94 billion in the previous month, and well below market consensus of a AUD 3.2 billion surplus. Both exports and imports hit all-time highs.

The South African economy advanced 1.1 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, after expanding 0.4 percent in the prior period and above market consensus of a 0.5 percent growth. It was the strongest growth rate since the last quarter of 2017, mostly boosted by a rebound in agriculture and transport, storage and communication sectors.

The Bank of Canada left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 1.75 percent of December 5th 2018, after hiking 25 bps on the previous meeting, as widely expected. It remained the highest rate since December 2008. Policymakers said more interest rate hikes will be need to keep inflation into a neutral range of 2 percent target and that will depend on factors, which include consumption and housing, global trade policy developments, oil price shock, the evolution of business investment, and the Bank’s assessment of the economy’s capacity. The Bank Rate and deposit rate were also left unchanged at 2.0 percent and 1.50 percent, respectively.

The Reserve Bank of India left its key policy rate steady at 6.5 percent for the second straight meeting on December 5th 2018, in line with market expectations. Policymakers reiterated the decision is consistent with a calibrated tightening that aims to achieve a 4 percent +/- 2 percent inflation target and support growth. The reverse repo rate was also left at 6.25 percent and the marginal standing facility rate and the Bank Rate at 6.75 percent each.

Malaysia's trade surplus widened sharply to MYR 16.3 billion in October of 2018 from MYR 10 billion in the same month of the prior year and far above market expectations of a surplus of MYR 12.5 billion. It was the largest trade surplus since October 1997, when trade balance posted a deficit MYR 0.15 billion, mainly due to a surge in exports.

The Philippines' annual inflation rate fell to a 4-month low of 6.0 percent in November of 2018 from a 9-1/2-year high of 6.7 percent in the previous two months. The latest figure was below market consensus of 6.2 percent, mainly driven by a marked slowdown in cost of food and housing.

The Australian economy grew a seasonally adjusted 0.3 percent in the September quarter of 2018, slowing sharply from a 0.9 percent expansion in the previous period and missing market consensus of a 0.6 percent advance. This was the weakest pace of expansion since a contraction seen in the third quarter of 2016, mainly due to a sharp slowdown in private consumption and a pull-back in non-residential construction.

The Central Bank of Chile left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.75 percent on 4 December 2018, matching market expectations. The decision was unanimous. Policymakers mentioned that weaker global and domestic growth is expected ahead and underscored that the peso and equities remain highly volatile. Nonetheless, a hawkish stance prevailed, as the minutes suggested higher rates to normalize the previous easing cycle. They also noted that while oil prices have plunged recently, prices of most commodities remain stable. As for consumer prices, policymakers underscored that inflation expectations declined since the last meeting. The annual inflation rate in Chile eased to 2.9 percent in October 2018 from 3.1 percent in the previous month.

The South African economy grew a seasonally adjusted annualized 2.2 percent on quarter in the three months to September of 2018, following a downwardly revised 0.4 percent contraction in the previous period and beating market expectations of a 1.6 percent expansion. It was the strongest growth rate since the last quarter of 2017 and after shrinking for two consecutive periods, mainly driven by manufacturing, transport and communication and real state and business services.

Irish seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased to 5.3 percent in November 2018 from an upwardly revised 5.4 percent in the previous month and below 6.4 percent a year ago. This was the lowest jobless rate since February 2008, as the number of unemployed fell further.

The annual inflation rate in Switzerland fell to 0.9 percent in November of 2018 from 1.1 percent in the previous month and below market expectations of 1.0 percent. It was the lowest inflation rate since April, mainly due to a slowdown in prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages and transport.

South Korea's annual inflation came in at 2 percent in November of 2018, the same as in the previous month while market had expected of a 2.2 percent rise. It remained the highest inflation rate since September 2017, amid a faster rise in cost of housing & utilities while inflation slowed for food and transport.

The South Korean economy expanded 2.0 percent year-on-year in the three months to September 2018, slowing from a 2.8 percent growth in the previous quarter and in line with market expectations, final data showed. It was the weakest growth rate since the third quarter of 2009.

The South Korean economy advanced 0.6 percent quarter-on-quarter in the three months to September 2018, the same pace as in the previous period and matching market consensus and the preliminary reading, final data showed.

The Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate at a record low of 1.5 percent at its December meeting, as widely expected, extending its record period of policy inaction beyond two years, amid sluggishness in inflation and a slowdown in housing market.

The Institute for Supply Management’s Manufacturing PMI in the US jumped to 59.3 in November of 2018 from 57.7 in October, beating market expectations of 57.6. New orders, production and employment rose faster and comments from the panel reflect continued expanding business strength.

The IHS Markit US Manufacturing PMI was revised slightly down to 55.3 from a preliminary of 55.4 in November of 2018 and 55.7 in October. However, the reading indicated a solid improvement in the health of the sector that was above the series trend as new orders rose the most since May and job creation was also stronger. On the other hand, business confidence was the lowest since September of 2017 amid concerns over the sustainability of the current sequence of new order growth.

The Turkish consumer price inflation eased to 21.62 percent year-on-year in November 2018 from a near 15-year high of 25.24 percent in the prior month, and below market expectations of 22.58 percent. It was the lowest inflation rate since August mainly due to a favourable trend in oil, lira recovery and tax cuts in consumer durables, furniture and automobile introduced by the government in early November.

South Korea’s trade surplus narrowed sharply to USD 5.14 billion in November of 2018 from USD 7.69 billion in the same month of the preceding year, preliminary data showed. It was the smallest trade surplus since February, as imports rose more than exports.

The Canadian economy grew 0.5 percent quarter-on-quarter in the third quarter of 2018, following a 0.7 percent expansion in the previous period. The slowdown was mainly due to lower household spending. Expressed as an annualized rate, the GDP advanced 2.0 percent, easing from a 2.9 percent growth in the second quarter and in line with market expectations.

The Indian economy advanced 7.1 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, well below 8.2 percent in the previous period and market expectations of 7.4 percent. It is the lowest growth rate in three quarters, mainly due to a slowdown in consumer spending amid high oil prices and a weaker rupee. Also, inventories, financial services, manufacturing and the farm sector rose less.

South Africa trade deficit widened to ZAR 5.55 billion in October of 2018 from a downwardly revised ZAR 3.83 billion in the previous month and compared with market expectations of a ZAR 2.25 billion shortfall. It was the largest trade gap since January, as imports rose faster than exports. Considering the first ten months of the year, the country posted a ZAR 8.82 billion deficit.

The Brazilian economy advanced 1.3 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018 after a downwardly revised 0.9 percent growth in the previous period but below forecasts of 1.6 percent. Still, it is the highest growth rate so far this year.

The annual inflation rate in Kenya went up to 5.58 percent in November of 2018 from 5.53 in the previous month, mainly due to higher prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages and transport. On a monthly basis, consumer prices went down 0.18 percent, following a 0.79 percent drop in October.

The Brazilian economy expanded 0.8 percent on quarter in the third quarter of 2018, above a 0.2 percent rise in the previous period and in line with market expectations. It is the highest growth rate since the first quarter of 2017, mainly due to a rebound in investment and government spending after a nationwide truck strike during May and June caused supply disruptions and weighed down on growth. So far this year, the Brazilian economy advanced 1.1 percent.

The Italian economy unexpectedly shrank 0.1 percent quarter-on-quarter in the third quarter of 2018, folllowing a 0.2 percent growth in the previous period, the final estimated showed. It was the first contraction since the second quarter of 2014.

The Portuguese economy grew by 0.3 percent on quarter in the three months to September 2018, unrevised from a preliminary estimate and following a 0.6 percent expansion in the previous period. Household consumption and fixed investment were the main drivers of growth while net external demand contributed negatively and government spending was unchanged.

The annual inflation rate in Italy is expected to increase to 1.7 percent in November of 2018 from 1.6 percent in the previous month, matching market expectations. It is the highest inflation rate since April 2016, as rising prices of food must offset slowing cost of non-regulated energy products.

The unemployment rate in the Euro Area was steady at 8.1 percent in October of 2018, the same as in each of the previous three months but higher than market expectations of 8 percent. It remained the lowest jobless rate since November of 2008.

The annual inflation rate in the Euro Area is expected to ease to 2.0 percent in November 2018 from a near six-year high of 2.2 percent in the previous month and slightly below market consensus of 2.1 percent. Prices should rise at a softer pace for services, energy, and food, alcohol & tobacco.

The annual inflation rate in Portugal is expected to edge down to 0.94 percent in November of 2018 from 0.96 percent in October, a preliminary estimate showed. It is the lowest inflation rate since April, mainly due to lower prices of energy.

Italy's unemployment rate rose to 10.6 percent in October 2018 from an upwardly revised 10.3 percent in the previous month and above market expectations of 10.1 percent. The number of unemployed increased by 2.4 percent while employment remained broadly stable.

Turkish trade gap slumped by 93.8 percent to USD 0.46 billion in October 2018 from USD 7.30 billion in the corresponding month of the previous year. It was the smallest trade deficit since April 2001 as exports rose 13 percent while imports tumbled 23.8 percent on the back of a weak lira.

The annual inflation rate in France decreased to 1.9 percent in November of 2018 from 2.2 percent in October, a preliminary estimate showed. It is the lowest inflation rate since April, amid a slowdown in prices of services, energy, food and tobacco. Cost of manufactured products should fall less.